◆ Seibu Lions Pacific League: Seibu vs. Rakuten Eagles (30th, Belluna Dome)

Seibu Lions outfielder Takumi Kuriyama (42) started his retirement game against the Rakuten Eagles, batting 6th as the DH. After flying out to left twice and grounding out to second, he recorded a hit in his fourth at-bat with two outs in the 8th inning, gracing the grand stage.

This was hit 's second hit of the season, his 25th as a professional, and his 2152nd career hit since the game against Nippon-Ham on April 18th (at Escon Stadium). When Hirasawa was sent back to the dugout as a pinch runner, he was greeted with high-fives from manager Nishiguchi and his teammates, and his eyes welled up with tears. He took a deep breath, then raised helmet with his right hand, acknowledging the cheers of the fans.

Prior to his retirement game, at a press conference held at a hotel in Tokyo starting at 9:00 AM, he declared, 'As for my best play, I have only had one hit so far this season, but I would say it is that one in front of the center fielder and my first hit after turning pro. I think the best one will be the hit I get today. The (hit count) will definitely advance.' With the hit that fulfilled his word, Belluna Dome was enveloped in loud cheers, and some fans were in tears.

Takumi Kuriyama. Born September 3, 1983, in Hyogo Prefecture. 42 years old. Joined the Seibu Lions from Ikuei High School as the 4th round draft pick in 2001. His first appearance was on September 24, 2004, against Kintetsu. He achieved 2,000 hits in 2021. He is a four-time Best Nine selection and a one-time Golden Glove Award winner. As of August 29, his career stats are 2,322 games played, 2,151 hits, 128 Home Runs, 3,001 total bases, 914 RBI, and 1,052 Walks. His career batting average is .277. 177 cm, 85 kg. Throws right, bats left.