[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo says 'He is a key player. He is the player representative. He just has to do it' - Encouraging Ryoya Kurihara who made an error leading to the winning run | Pacific League.com

[Softbank Hawks] Manager Hiroki Kokubo says, "He is a key player. He is the player representative. He just has to do it," as he encourages Ryoya Kurihara, who committed an error that led to the winning run.

Sports Hochi

September 1, 2026 21:05

◆ Pacific League: Nippon-Ham 2-1 Softbank Hawks (1st, ES CON FIELD)

Softbank Hawks manager Hiroki Kokubo urged infielder Ryoya Kurihara to step up after he committed an error in the eighth inning.

In the eighth inning with the score tied 1-1, the lead-off batter Nomura hit a ground ball between third and short. Third baseman Kurihara made the catch, but his throw went wide, allowing the runner to reach base. Later, with two outs and a runner on third, Moinelo gave up runs when Castro hit a single to center field. In his ninth-inning at-bat, he struck out with a runner on first and no outs.

Manager Kokubo demanded a leadership stance, stating, "I always say this, but mistakes happen. It's about what you do afterward. He is a key player. He is the player representative. He just has to go out there and do it."

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