DeNA clinches fifth straight Climax Series spot
On September 22 at Yokohama, DeNA beat Chunichi 7-3 to clinch a Climax Series berth for the fifth consecutive season. Shugo Maki opened the scoring with a 30th‑home‑run two‑run blast off a 149 km/h fastball in the first inning. Starter Katsuki Azuma (East) worked five innings and left with the chance for his 12th win as the offense provided steady support.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Hanshin wins dramatic 11‑inning affair
At Jingu on September 22, Hanshin edged Yakult 9-7 in an 11‑inning thriller. In the 11th, No.67 Takatera delivered the go‑ahead two‑run shot, and Hanshin relied on a season‑high ten‑pitcher bullpen effort to secure the win. Outfielder Shota Morishita was hit by pitch for the 18th time this season, setting a club record.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Carp confirm manager Arai will continue next season
On September 22 the Carp announced that owner Matsuda confirmed manager Takahiro Arai will remain in charge next season. The club indicated a single‑year contract is expected; Matsuda said he believes Arai is the person to keep the team united. The decision places emphasis on rebuilding and finishing the job in the coming year.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Takuya Nakajima honored in retirement game
The Hokkaido Nippon‑Ham Fighters staged Takuya Nakajima’s retirement game on September 22 at Es Con Field. A special feature page and an on‑field ceremony drew strong fan attention. Nakajima thanked supporters after the game, saying he felt fortunate for an 18‑year career and expressed interest in coaching in the future.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Orix rallies to win at ZOZO Marine
At ZOZO Marine on September 22, Orix beat Lotte 6-4. Kurebayashi homered in the second (his 17th), Wakatsuki added a solo in the fifth, and Ryoto Kurita tied it with a sixth‑inning solo (his 9th). Rookie lefty Taisuke Higashimatsu (Higashimatsu/Tōmatsu—listed as East Matsu) worked five innings, allowing three runs and earning his first victory for the club.
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SoftBank holds on in tight game
At Mizuho PayPay Dome on September 22, SoftBank edged Seibu 6-5. Daigo Makihara (Makihara) hit a two‑run homer (his 5th), Yuki Yanagita crushed a three‑run shot (his 18th) and Kurihara added an eighth‑inning solo. Starter Taiga Uechatani (Uechatani) hurled five innings with one run allowed as SoftBank kept its place atop the standings.
Source: 日刊スポーツ