◆ Pacific League: Softbank Hawks vs. Seibu Lions (3rd, Mizuho PayPay Stadium)

Softbank Hawks ・ On the 3rd, Akira Nakamura infielder held a press conference at Mizuho PayPay Dome to announce his retirement from professional baseball. Manager Yuki Kokubo had trained with him during voluntary training in Arizona, U.S., in January 2010, when Kokubo was still an active player. Speaking to the media before the game, Kokubo reflected on those days and praised his achievements.

He revealed that accompanying Nakamura to his offseason training in Arizona was at the request of the front office. He candidly admitted that at the time, "I never imagined he would become a player who hit 1,500 hits. To be honest, I thought even being a regular player would be tough." He continued, "He doesn't have a strong arm, and he's not fast. But even so, if you set your own goals and keep doing what you need to do, you can achieve results like that. For players in similar circumstances, I think he's an incredibly good role model," he said, once again praising Akira Nakamura 's journey as he forged his own path.

Among the things he felt was his strength, he cited "inner strength." "He was determined to become a regular player in this world, and he never wavered in his goal," he said, showing respect for his unwavering commitment to what he needed to do. Nevertheless, the manager reiterated, "It's not time to say 'good job' yet. We're thinking of using him as a pinch-hitting starting line-up towards the end of August and September, and if he's in good condition, even as a starter at first base. We talked about that today." Together, they are heading towards another Japan Series championship.