Murakami names opponents to watch ahead of CS
At a joint press conference on October 9, 2026, Hanshin pitcher Shoki Murakami said he is keeping a close eye on DeNA’s Shugo Maki and Yomiuri’s Bobby Dalbec. Speaking alongside manager Kyuji Fujikawa, Murakami stressed the need for the pitching staff to hold opponents in key moments and vowed to bring the team’s championship momentum into the short series.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
DeNA pins hopes on Maki as they chase upset
At a joint press conference at Tokyo Dome on October 9, 2026, DeNA manager Ryoji Aikawa identified Shugo Maki as the linchpin of the lineup and said he expects veterans such as Miyazaki and Tsutsugo to play important roles. Ace pitcher Azuma (Higashi) declared the team will focus on attempting an upset in the short series.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Giants expect Sakamoto and Dalbec to be available
At the CS pregame press conference on October 9, 2026, Yomiuri acting manager Hideki Hashigami reported that Hayato Sakamoto and Bobby Dalbec have improved their condition and are expected to be available for the series. He added that, although Sakamoto has been on a modified program, he should be able to contribute when given the opportunity.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Nippon-Ham to start Arihara in Game 1
At the Pacific League CS press conference on October 9, 2026, Nippon-Ham manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo announced that Kohei Arihara will start Game 1. Although Arihara endured a difficult stretch earlier in the season, he has shown improvement late in the year, and the manager entrusted the experienced right-hander with the opening assignment.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Seibu names Canario a key player for CS
At the Pacific League CS press conference at Belluna Dome on October 9, 2026, Seibu manager Fumiya Nishiguchi identified A. Canario as a key figure who can lift the club’s momentum. Nishiguchi also indicated that Kaima Taira will be entrusted with Game 1, signaling a strategy that leans on the pitching staff in the short series.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
SoftBank’s Otsu likely out for CS with shoulder issue
Reports on October 9, 2026 indicate SoftBank pitcher Ryosuke Otsu has joined the rehab group with a right-shoulder condition, making a CS appearance unlikely. Otsu had been a key contributor this season, going 12–5 in 22 appearances with a 2.68 ERA, so his absence could leave a notable gap in the club’s short-series plans.
Source: 日刊スポーツ