◇Fukuoka Softbank vs Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Round 24 (9th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank's Kensuke Kondo hit a go-ahead 26th solo home run.

Kondo, who started as the "No. 3 left fielder," entered the batter's box with two outs and no runner in the bottom of the 1st inning. On a count 3-1, he caught a fastball from the opposing starter, pitcher Kota Tatsu, and sent the ball toward right field. The high arc landed in the right-field stands for a go-ahead 26th home run.

Kondo also faced pitcher Tatsu on the 2nd of this month. Although he was used as the No. 3 hitter in the heart of the lineup just like in this game, he struggled, going 0 hit in 3 At Bat. Nevertheless, in this game, he produced results from his first at-bat and got the game moving.

◇Kensuke Kondo Comment
"I was able to catch the fastball perfectly. I just focused on doing my own batting. I think I was able to create a good momentum by scoring the first run with a home run from two outs. I want to support Uwasawa so we can win today as well."

Text by Aoi Nemoto