◇ Hokkaido Nippon-Ham vs. Tohoku Rakuten Eagles, Game 5 (22nd, ES CON FIELD)

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters' Daiki Asama hit his first home run of the season, a two-run shot.

He started the game as the number 9 batter and center fielder. In the bottom of the second inning, with a one-run lead and two outs and a runner on first base, he stepped up to the plate for his first at-bat. On a 2-0 count, he skillfully connected with breaking ball thrown by opposing pitcher Tatsuki Koja, sending the ball high into the right field stands. It was his first home run of the season, adding a valuable insurance run.

Asama, who was promoted to the first team on the 21st, immediately started in that day's game. He got his first hit of the season in the middle innings and scored the go-ahead run. He will be looking to continue to perform well and earn more playing opportunities in the future.

Written by Yokazu Sonoda