[Softbank Hawks] Kensuke Kondo hits his 19th home run, a three-run shot in the first inning to give his team the lead. "A perfect hit, I didn't walk, I was sure I could do my own batting," he said. | Pacific League

[Softbank Hawks] Kensuke Kondo hits his 19th home run, a three-run shot in the first inning to give his team the lead. "I was confident I wouldn't walk," he said of his perfect hit, adding, "I was able to do my own batting well."

Sports Hochi

July 5, 2026 13:53

◆ Pacific League: Softbank Hawks vs. Lotte (5th, Mizuho PayPay)

Softbank Hawks Hawks outfielder Kensuke Kondo hit a go-ahead three-run homer in the first inning, his 19th of the season.

Leadoff hitter Masaki drew Walk, and second batter Shuto was hit by Hit by Pitch, putting runners on first and second with no outs when Kondo stepped up to the plate for his first at-bat. Kondo connected with the first pitch from Lotte's Kojima, and after swinging hard, he remained at the plate watching the ball fly. The ball landed in the right-field stands. It was his first home run in four games, giving starting pitcher Haru Matsumoto some run support.

"I hit a fastball. I was determined to make the most of the opportunity in the first inning. I think I was able to hit my own bat well. I'm glad I was able to create a good situation with home run that gave us an important lead," he reflected.

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