Pacific League: Nippon-Ham 5, Lotte 4 (30th, ES CON FIELD)

On the 30th, Nippon-Ham secured a three-game comeback victory over Lotte with three consecutive wins. With four straight wins, his savings now reach a season-high 14. Shun Mizutani outfielder (25), who played starting line-up as the leadoff right fielder, hit the game-winning hit in the seventh inning. After about a month of second-team adjustments, his hit choked up on the podium.

His eyes were moist with tears. On the post-game hero interview stage, Mizutani was overcome with emotion as he said, 'It was a very difficult time, and I thought I might never be able to return to Hokkaido (from Kamagaya). So many fans gave me warm cheers...' He managed to squeeze out the words, 'It really gave me strength. ...Thank you.'

In the seventh inning, with the score tied and one out, Yamagata came to bat with one out and a runner on first runner, stealing second base. After his re-promotion on the 22nd, he had no hit but no RBI. "I couldn't hit in any chances, so half thought, 'Another chance,' and half my desire to hit somehow." He hit Lotte Suzuki's 147 km/h inside pitch to center fielder, shaking off negative emotions.

His parents and his beloved dog watched this three-game series from the stands. "I really wanted to make it to the hero's podium somehow, so I'm glad I could get a hit," he said with a smile. He also made sure to promote the newly released pineapple merchandise. Having regained his true form, the leadoff man holds the key to the team's September counteroffensive. (Yasushi Yamaguchi)