[Softbank Hawks] Ryoya Kurihara gets his first hit in 16 at-bats, a crucial go-ahead hit! He hit a single to left field off Rakuten Eagles 's Koja and said, "I was able to make my own swing."

Sports Hochi

July 12, 2026 14:50

In the first inning, with two outs and a runner on first base, Ryoya Kurihara hit a single to right hit. (Photo by Haruko Yoshimura)

◆ Pacific League Softbank Hawks vs. Rakuten Eagles (December 12th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Softbank Hawks ・ Ryoya Kurihara infielder hit a go-ahead RBI single in the first inning.

In the first inning, with one out and runners on first and third, he stepped up to the plate and connected with the first pitch, cutter, sending it to left field. Third runner Masaki scored, giving his team the lead. He hadn't gotten a hit in the last three games, going 15 consecutive at-bats, but he fulfilled his role as hit from the first inning. "I was able to swing with all my might from the first pitch, and that resulted in a timely hit. I'm glad I was able to take advantage of the chance to score the first run," he reflected.