[Pacific League CS] Softbank ‘s opening day No. 5 Masaki plays in the first team for the first time in six months since undergoing left shoulder surgery. “I could see the ball better than I thought I would.”

[Pacific League CS] Softbank ‘s opening day No. 5 Masaki plays in the first team for the first time in six months since undergoing left shoulder surgery. “I could see the ball better than I thought I would.”

Sports Hochi

2025.10.17(金) 22:41

◆2025 Persol Climax Series Pacific Final Stage Game 3 Softbank 0-6 Nippon-Ham (17th, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Softbank outfielder Tomoya Masaki came in as a pinch hitter with two outs and a runner on first in the seventh inning, and hit a grounder to shortstop. Although diving catch are still prohibited, he also took over as right defense.

The 25-year-old Keio University graduate, who batted fifth in the opening game, overcame surgery on his left shoulder to play in the first team for the first time since April 18th. He was greeted by roaring cheers from The Hawks fans. “The cheers gave me goosebumps. I could see the ball really well. I think it was a good experience for me to be in a more tense situation than today. I’ll do my best to get better at-bats and hit the ball better from tomorrow onwards,” he said.

During his absence, Yanagimachi, a senior at Keio University and a student two years his senior, took over the regular outfield position and won the title for highest on-base percentage. Masaki wants to make his presence felt in the postseason in order to compete for a regular spot next season.

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