[Softbank Hawks] Their 자랑스러운 "KK duo" explodes from the first inning! With two outs, Kensuke Kondo and Ryoya Kurihara hit back-to-back home runs! The two players, who are engaged in a fierce RBI for the RBI title, score two runs to take the lead. | Pacific League

[Softbank Hawks] Their 자랑스러운 "KK duo" explodes from the first inning! With two outs, Kensuke Kondo and Ryoya Kurihara hit back-to-back home runs! The two players, who are engaged in RBI fierce battle for the RBI title, score two runs to take the lead.

Sports Hochi

August 22, 2026 14:26

In the first inning with two outs, Kensuke Kondo hit Home Run over the right field fence to give his team the lead. (Photo by Haruko Yoshimura)

◆ Pacific League Softbank vs. Orix (22nd, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Softbank Hawks took an early lead with two runs in the first inning.

The opposing starting pitcher, Takashima, quickly got the first two outs, but Kondo was the first to hit breaking ball into the right field stands on a 2-2 count. His 25th solo home run gave them the lead, and Kurihara followed with his 34th solo home run to right field on a 2-1 count.

Kondo: "The pitch I hit was two seam fastball. I was behind in the count, but I was able to make a good approach from there. I'm glad I was able to get off to a good start with a go-ahead home run in the first inning."

Kurihara: "I was able to hit two seam fastball perfectly. Following Kondo's home run, I was able to swing with confidence and do my own batting. I'm glad I was able to follow up with home run."

With solo home runs in the first inning, Kondo reached 90 RBI and Kurihara RBI 91. These home runs from the two players vying for the title gave them control of the game.

Article provided by:

Featured