◆Mynavi All-Star Game 2026: Pacific League 7-8 Central League (June 29, Toyama)

Nippon-Ham Fighters manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo revealed the story behind his headfirst slide in the fourth inning, a move reminiscent of the legendary home steal he performed at the 2004 All-Star Game.

In the fourth inning, with the score tied 4-4, Shinjo took his position as first base coach and, after consecutive hits by Wakatsuki and Murabayashi, put runners on first and third with no outs. On the second pitch to Seibu Lions 's Takizawa, he used his "wristband sign" to initiate a double steal, allowing Wakatsuki to score the go-ahead run. Manager Shinjo also ran to home plate from his position as first base coach in sync with Wakatsuki, and performed a headfirst slide.

Speaking to reporters after the game, the manager explained the incident, saying, "He just fell. He really fell." He smiled as he recalled, "My knees were shaking. I had the image of it happening (in 2004), but I had fallen before that. I was just ahead of Wakatsuki when I got to the base, and I thought I was safe, but I fell just before I got there."