◇ Chiba Lotte Marines vs. Saitama Seibu Lions Game 15 (4th · Zozo Marine Stadium)

Saitama’s Seibu Lions ’s Nevin hit a two-run home run—his 16th of the season—to give his team the early lead.

He started the game as the “No. 4 batter for first baseman.” After leadoff hitter Rakuto Wakabayashi was walked by Walk, Nevin stepped up to the plate with two outs and a runner on third. He swung at the first pitch thrown by the opposing starter, Kazuya Ojima pitcher. He connected on the first pitch, a fastball high and inside, sending the ball into the middle section of the left-center field stands to drive in the go-ahead run.

This was Nevin’s first home run in six games. Although he got off to a slow start this season due to injury, he posted strong numbers in May with a .341 batting average and 9 Home Run, earning him the Monthly MVP award.Although his performance dipped in June—with a .224 batting average and 2 Home Run—he has been gradually regaining his form in July, posting a .244 batting average and 4 Home Run.

◇Comment from Nevin
“I hit a fastball. I was able to swing aggressively and powerfully right from the first pitch. I’m glad we were able to score the first run.”

Text by Aoi Nishijima