Pitching two innings with zero runs against Nippon-Ham! Sakaguchi says, "He looks like he could become an interesting presence."

On the 13th, the second-place Pacific League team Seibu Lions played against the third-place Nippon-Ham and lost 1-7. The gap between the two teams is now 1.5 games.

The Seibu Lions continue their must-win battle to hold onto second place. On the October 13th broadcast of Fuji TV ONE's 'Professional baseball News 2026', commentator Kenji Tomashino focused on Wataru Matsumoto, who pitched two innings with zero runs in relief that day, stating, "He is throwing very good balls." He further remarked, "While there is only one game left against Nippon-Ham, considering the upcoming Climax Series and Japan Series, how they utilize Wataru Matsumoto—who also has experience as a starter—will be extremely important. I felt that he might become a key player." MC Tomotaka Sakaguchi agreed, saying, "He seems like he could become an interesting presence."

☆ Cooperation: Fuji TV ONE "Professional baseball News 2026"