◇ Fukuoka Softbank vs. Hanshin Tigers 'Nippon Life Interleague 2026' Round 3 (11th, MIZUHO PayPay Dome)

​Tomoya Masaki player from Fukuoka Softbank hit a solo home run to tie the game.

He started as the leadoff hitter right fielder. In the bottom of the fourth, right after giving up a one-run lead, he took the leadoff plate and swung strongly at the ninth pitch, an outside fastball thrown by opposing starter Masashi pitcher, and sent it to the left field stands. Next, Ukyo Shuto and Kensuke Kondo players connected with a series of attacks, and Ryoya Kurihara players sacrifice fly to make it 2-1. They have successfully turned the tables.

Masaki hit his first Home Run since the June 6 game against Yokohama DeNA. As the leadoff hitter, he has made his presence felt within the Hawks' lineup.

◇ Comment from Masaki
"The one I hit was sinker. (two seam fastball) I came to the plate aiming to create opportunities with extra-base hits, but once I was pushed back, I focused on swinging compactly. In the end, it captured it firmly, angled it well, and home run the best shape. I'm glad it became a home run to get back to square one. I'll keep working hard so I can bat that leads to victory."

Text by Kanako Fukushima