◆ Pacific League: Softbank Hawks vs. Orix Buffaloes (22nd, Mizuho PayPay Stadium)

Softbank Hawks ・ Akira Nakamura infielder have been added to the active roster. The Hawks A veteran in his 19th season with the team. He announced on July 3 that he would retire at the end of this season, and this marks his first return to the first team since June 9.

The team is currently 6.5 games ahead of second-place Seibu Lions, and their magic number for winning the championship is 25. As they make great strides towards their third consecutive championship, a reliable veteran will also be returning.

In November 2013, he underwent surgery for a lumbar disc herniation and, after diligent rehabilitation, secured a spot on the opening day roster. However, he struggled with a batting average of .129 and was sent to the farm team for adjustments. He has since improved his condition in Chikugo, Fukuoka, with a batting average of .262, one Home Run, and 10 RBI. Even after announcing his retirement from active play with the first team, manager Kokubo said, "It's not time to say 'thank you for your hard work' yet. We're considering him as a valuable asset. We're thinking of using him as a pinch hitter in the latter half of August and September, and if he's in good condition, we're also considering him as a starting line-up at first base," indicating that he is an indispensable player for winning the championship. His long-awaited return to the first team will further boost the team's momentum towards a third consecutive league championship.