Softbank Hawks Hawks manager Hiroki Kokubo summarized the first half of the season on the 27th. After 93 games, the team has a 24-game lead. They are 5.5 games ahead of second-place Seibu Lions and are in first place at the halfway point.

One reason for his sprint to lead was the manager's comment, "Masaki being the best player was a big deal." Since the May 16 game against Rakuten Eagles (Rakuten Eagles Mobile Strongest), Masaki has mainly served as the leadoff hitter, batting .291 with a batting average of .291, including four leadoff hitter Home Run and 15 Home Run and 38 RBI. His slugging percentage is .536, and his on-base percentage is approaching .400. Looking back on the pull, he commented, "At that time, everyone told me to bat first, Masaki. Given the current state, it's fine, and the left side will follow." Masaki responded with outstanding performance.

Hitting and skills coach Yuya Hasegawa, who is in charge of deciding batting order, basically plans to decide it from the leadoff spot. The manager, who has hit a total of 413 Home Run said, "I used to decide it from the fourth spot, but that situation has changed. My way of thinking has become more flexible."

Manager Kokubo played in all 144 games in 2009, his 16th year as a professional and the year he turned 38. Nevertheless, he articulated his current thinking, saying, "I was taught that the key players should all play until the end. It may be an old-fashioned way of thinking, but it's not good to force it on them. When it's time to rest, you should rest." Yanagida, who is also turning 38 this year, calmly analyzed, "I can't play five games a week. I can manage two or three times." By making full use of the "DH" position, no fielder have suffered long-term injuries so far. Yamamoto Kei, Shoji, and Watanabe Riku have also made their presence felt. This "modern" and diverse use of players is contributing to the team's revitalization.

On the other hand, he also acknowledges that "we won't easily replace players like Kurihara," showing that there are aspects that remain unchanged. He continues to evolve and will advance all the way to victory.