The final results of the fan vote for the “Mynavi All-Star Game 2026” (July 28, Tokyo Dome; July 29, Toyama) were announced on the 7th, and first baseman Kotaro Kiyomiya infielder (27) of Nippon-Ham was selected in the category.Having been selected in the fan vote for the second consecutive year, he said, “Since there were candidates like Nevin (Seibu Lions) in the ‘first baseman’ category, I did feel like I wanted to be chosen in a way that everyone would universally recognize. But since so many people voted for me, I hope to play in a way that lives up to their expectations.”Although he is not quite at his best—batting .238 with 9 Home Run—he expressed his gratitude for the fans’ votes.

In 2022, he made his debut via the Plus One vote and hit a “walk-off home run” in his first game; last season, he hit three home runs—including a massive one—hit and two RBI in his second game, winning MVP honors in both games. One of the league’s top showmen,“That walk-off home run from my first appearance really left a lasting impression. I’ve played in it twice so far and won MVP both times, so I feel like it might be a bit too good to be true, but I’d love to aim for a third,” he said, showing a hint of ambition.