◇ Fukuoka Softbank vs. Orix Buffaloes, Game 14 (22nd, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank launched a fierce offensive, scoring 7 runs by the second inning.

In the bottom of the first inning, trailing by one run, Tomoya Masaki 's hit and Walk put runners on first and second with no outs, and Kensuke Kondo hit a timely single to tie the game immediately. Ryoya Kurihara then swung at the first pitch and hit a timely doble that hit wall to take the lead. Yuki Yanagita also hit a timely single, providing support for starting pitcher C. Stewart Jr.​

In the bottom of the second inning, Kondo and Kurihara hit back-to-back Home Run, giving Fukuoka Softbank a significant lead with 7 runs scored by the end of the second inning. The in-form core of the lineup is once again leading the offense today.

◇Comment from Kondo (RBI hit in the bottom of the 1st inning)
"I hit cutter. I was determined to make the most of the opportunity. I'm glad I was able to tie the game with a timely hit right after we conceded the first run, and to keep the momentum going in a good way."

◇Kurihara's comment (1st inning, RBI doble)
"I hit two seam fastball. I was in a good flow and was able to take a swing with confidence. I'm glad I was able to create a good situation with a timely hit that gave us the lead and extended our chances. I'll do my best to be involved in scoring runs from now on."

◇Yanagida's comment (2-run RBI hit in the bottom of the 1st inning)
"The pitch I hit was fork. I made sure to hit it squarely on the sweet spot, with a nice 'thud.' I'm glad I was able to get a two-run RBI and add some important runs."

◇Comment from Kondo (2nd inning, 2-run Home Run)
"I was able to connect perfectly with two seam fastball. In a good situation, I just focused on making my own swing. I'm glad that home run added to the score and it turned out well."

◇Kurihara's comment (solo Home Run the bottom of the 2nd inning)
"I hit two seam fastball. Kondo-san hit home run before me, so I wanted to follow suit and score an additional run. I'm glad it turned out to be the perfect scenario where I continued the momentum with home run."

Written by Aoi Nishijima