Izumiguchi’s 9th‑inning go‑ahead two‑run homer
At Tokyo Dome on Sept. 18, the Giants and Dragons were deadlocked until the ninth. Giants infielder Yuta Izumiguchi launched an eighth homer of the season — a two‑run shot in the bottom of the ninth — to give Yomiuri a walk‑off 2-0 victory. R. Martínez earned the win while Kanemaru took the loss. Attendance: 42,390.
Source: 日本野球機構
Yamano’s 8th‑inning surge lifts Yakult to 3-1 win
On Sept. 18 in Yokohama, Yakult broke a scoreless game with a three‑run outburst in the eighth and defeated DeNA 3-1. Taichi Yamano earned his 11th win; Ise took the loss and Walters recorded the save. Attendance was 31,091. The eighth‑inning rally decided the game.
Source: 日本野球機構
Otake spins seven‑inning, two‑hit shutout to earn sixth win
At Koshien on Sept. 18, Hanshin beat Hiroshima 2-1 behind a strong start from Kotaro Otake, who worked seven shutout innings allowing two hits to pick up his sixth victory of the season. Reporters highlighted Otake’s return to a heavier fastball and a crisp 72‑pitch outing that settled the game.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Maeda to start Sept. 19, aiming for two crowns
Fukuoka SoftBank announced that rookie starter Yugo Maeda is expected to start on Sept. 19 against Rakuten, with attention on his chase for seasonal awards. The report quotes manager Kokubo saying it could be his final start, and highlights Maeda’s drive to secure titles such as most wins as the season concludes.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Yohei Oshima expected to receive contract renewal
Reports indicate that 40‑year‑old outfielder Yohei Oshima is expected to sign a contract extension with Chunichi for next season. A veteran with 2,079 career hits, Oshima will enter his 18th professional year; the article notes that despite limited first‑team appearances this season, his long‑term achievements remain valued by the club.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Hiroshima registers Nobuhito Suetsukae to first squad
According to the NPB roster announcement on Sept. 18, Hiroshima Toyo Carp added outfielder Nobuhito Suetsukae to its active roster. The same announcement lists Atsumu Nishikawa as being removed from the roster that day; Suetsukae’s promotion is presented as a reinforcement for the first team.
Source: 日本野球機構