◆ Pacific League Seibu Lions 6-1 Rakuten Eagles (July 7, Naha)

Seibu Lions Kaima Taira pitcher (26), greeted by the sound of finger whistles echoing in the Okinawa night sky, claimed the first star. With 5 innings, 4 hit, no runs, he earned his 6th win. This was his 38th regular season in Okinawa since the first event in 1961. As a starter, he became the 11th pitcher overall (20th including relief), achieving the long-awaited 'first win of the Okinawa Tournament for a pitcher from Okinawa,' and said shyly, 'The team won, and overall I think it was good, so I'm happy.'

As a starter, he made his second return appearance in three years and showed tenacious pitching. 5 innings, 2 outs, bases loaded. He struck Sōyama struck out swinging splitter 137 km/h, then bounced slightly. All three batters retired in order through the third inning. In the 4th, he had two consecutive Walk with runners on first and second, but retired Murabayashi struck out swinging and missing, saying, "I was able to create a game and get a solid struck out, so I was relieved."

A strange scene unfolded. Seibu Lions starting line-up announced. When the announcement of "Starting pitcher pitcher is... Kaima Taira," a particularly loud whistle echoed throughout the stadium. pitch During practice, when the first pitch was thrown, there was a roar and applause. "It was different from usual, and it felt like the cheers were reaching even closer," the cheers of the prefectural residents gave a strong boost.

A lucky charm shines on the neck of his right arm. He is wearing a seahorse necklace, which he says he bought because "his name is Kaima (sea horse)." Known as a motif that symbolizes upward movement and rising, as its swimming motion resembles a dragon, he has borrowed its power to bring win.

A strong pitching performance from the local right-hander snapped the team's six-game losing streak and secured their first win of July. Their Tanabata wish is "We want to work hard together so we can win the championship." They hope this victory in Okinawa will give them momentum as they aim for their first championship since 2019. (Ayami Onaka)