Rakuten pitcher Koyashu and SoftBank rookie Hokuto stumble in NPB defeats

Rakuten Golden Eagles starter Koyashu gave up two runs in the fifth inning and was pulled from the mound as the team fell 2‑4 to OiSics Niigata in a farm game. He allowed solo home runs in the first and fourth innings, and despite a late rally that included a three‑run ninth‑inning surge, Rakuten could not overcome the deficit.

SoftBank Hawks rookie right‑hander Hokuto made his professional debut and surrendered seven runs by the second inning, largely after a defensive misplay on a ground ball that allowed a runner to reach safely. The early onslaught led to an 8‑run loss, ending the Hawks' six‑game winning streak. Coach Kokubo emphasized the error rather than the pitcher, noting the need for composure and experience as the young arm adjusts to top‑level play.