◆ Seibu Lions Pacific League: Seibu vs. Softbank Hawks (9th, Belluna Dome)

Having climbed back to second place, Seibu Lions will face Softbank Hawks at their home stadium, Belluna Dome in a series to win the series.

Takeya Nakamura infielder, now in his 25th professional season, started as the "No. 4 hitter and designated hitter" for the third consecutive game. In the previous day's game on the 8th, he recorded his hit for the 24th consecutive year.

In addition, the players registered for the game that day—Takayoshi Yamamura (infielder) and Tokumasa Chano (outfielder)—were both on the bench. It appears they had rushed back to Tokyo from Niigata, where a minor league game was being played, and were not present for the pre-game practice.

The starting pitcher Natsuki Takeuchi who is aiming for his ninth win of the season.

Seibu Lions' starting line-up is as follows:

1 (2) Takizawa

2 (Catcher) Yu Koga

3 (1) Nevin

4 (DH) Tsuyoshi Nakamura

5 (left) Hirasawa

6 (right) Canario

7 (3) Watanabe

8 (Shortstop) Genda

9 (middle) shore

Starting pitcher: Natsuki Takeuchi