◆ Despite a 6-9 record this season, Tsuji says, "Their performance was good enough that a 9-6 record wouldn't have been surprising."

Rakuten Eagles ・ Kosei Shoji started against the Lotte Marines on the 18th. He pitched 6 innings, throwing 77 pitches, with 3 hit 6 strike out no walk 2 runs, earning his first win since July 18.

Shoji has 121 strike out strike out (3rd in the league) and a league-leading rate (average strike out per inning at 9.31). MC Mitsur pitch u Manaka of Fuji TV ONE's 'Pro baseball News 2026' aired on the 18th recalled, "From the second inning to the seventh inning, it was a one-hit pitch," and praised Shoji, saying, "Shoji has a lot of strike out and a lot of Home Run, but he also got struck out firmly." Commentator Ryota Igarashi added, "pitcher to get struck out, it means he's competing in the zone, so I think the chances of Home Run are higher. But he's swinging his balls well again today. Of course, the straightball is sharp, but I think the range of curves and drops in the breaking ball is also significant."

Another commentator, Hatsuhiko Tsuji, said, "Even when he's pitching well, he gives up a big hit in crucial moments, in the later innings. I think his performance is good enough that it wouldn't be surprising if he went 9-6 instead of 6-9." Manaka also expressed his hopes, saying, "I hope he can increase his win total."

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