Maeda Yugo’s 7 straight wins
On July 19, 2026, at ZOZO Marine Stadium, Fukuoka SoftBank starter Yugo Maeda threw seven scoreless innings as the Hawks beat the Chiba Lotte Marines 3-0. Maeda recorded his seventh straight victory; the bullpen preserved the shutout and the club took the series advantage.
Katayama records first pro win
On July 19, 2026, at Yokohama Stadium, Yokohama DeNA rookie and fourth-round pick Koshin Katayama went five innings, allowing three hits and one earned run to earn his first professional victory as DeNA defeated the Yakult Swallows 5-1. The offense provided support with homers from Maki, Ebina and Encarnacion.
Hanshin defeats Hiroshima
On July 19, 2026, at Mazda Stadium, the Hanshin Tigers beat the Hiroshima Carp 4-2. Starter Saiki delivered a steady outing and the bullpen preserved the lead. During the game a pitch from a Carp pitcher struck a Hanshin batter; umpires issued warnings and players briefly gathered near home plate but no altercation occurred.