◆ Saito also praised him, saying, "He really watches hitter carefully when he pitches."

Seibu Lions Wingenter On the 2nd, he closer Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes runs for 8 innings, setting a new league record and tying the NPB hold with 18 consecutive holds.

On the Fuji TV ONE program "Pro baseball News 2026" aired on the 2nd, MC Tsutomu Iwamoto praised him, saying, "His presence is one of the driving forces behind our current standings." Commentator Akio Saito added, "That's right. He was sidelined at the start of the season due to injury, but I think he's been doing a great job since returning. Depending on hitter and the situation, he has control and sharpness in slider, not just throwing it with power from above, so it looks like he's really watching hitter before he throws." Iwamoto agreed, saying, "So it's not just about momentum."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"