Fukuoka Softbank vs. Tokyo Yakult Open Game (4th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

Fukuoka Softbank Tatsuru Yanagimachi The player hit Home Run.

He started as the leadoff hitter and left fielder. In the bottom of the third inning, right after losing two runs, he came up to bat for the second time with two outs and no runner on base. He caught the first curveball thrown by the opposing starting pitcher, Shunsuke Shimokawa, and hit the ball into the right-field stands. He immediately scored a run.

Last season, Yanagimachi reached the required number of at-bats for the first time, had the highest on-base percentage, and was named to the Best Nine. He is currently in good form, hit in three consecutive exhibition games. He hopes to lead the batting lineup this season as well.

◇ Comment from Yanagimachi
"We had a hard time getting runner on base, so with two outs I stepped up to the plate with the intention of scoring and hitting a long ball. I was able to pull the curveball in well and get it in one swing. During the season, it will be important to hit a home run that can change the flow of the game, so I would like to improve my reliability in scoring with one swing."

Written by Yokazu Sonoda