◇ Fukuoka Softbank vs. Chiba Lotte Marines 11th Round (5th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

​Fukuoka Softbank Kensuke Kondo hit his 19th three-run homer to take the lead. With 59 RBI season, he surpassed his teammate Ryoya Kurihara to climb to the top of the league.

Kondo, who had 9 At Bat hit in his last three games, came to bat in the first inning with Tomoya Masaki and Ukyo Shuto reaching base in the Hit by Pitch and then with no outs and runners on first and second. The opposing starter, Kazuya Ojima pitcher, threw the first pitch. He swings his bat without hesitation against a fastball that comes in weakly. His long-hanging hit is a jump into the middle section of the stands near the right field pole.

Kondo has reached his 19th home run for the first time in two seasons since winning the hitter in this Home Run in 2024. So far this season, he has been shining as a key player, batting .294 with a .19 Home Run 59 RBI.

◇ Comment from Player Kondo
"I hit it with a straight ball. I was determined to make the most of the first opportunity. I think I was able to hit my batting properly. I'm glad I was able to create a good form with the home run that became an important opening goal."

Text by Ao Yokoyama