Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters fall to Seibu Lions after walk-off homer

On June 26 at the Belle Arena, the Hokkaido Nippon‑Ham Fighters led the Pacific League‑leading Seibu Lions early, taking a 2‑1 advantage in the fifth inning and extending it to 3‑1 in the seventh. The Lions rallied in the seventh to tie the game and ultimately won 4‑3 in the ninth when カナリオ hit a walk‑off home run.

Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo has expressed frustration over an abundance of starting pitchers and limited bullpen spots. After a recent 5‑1 victory over Seibu, the team’s rotation hinges on three main starters, leaving promising pitchers such as 有原航平 on the cusp of a possible July promotion. Shinjo continues to juggle the deep pitching staff while seeking stability for the club.