SoftBank Hawks lead DeNA BayStars 2-0 in Japan Series

The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks have taken a 2-0 lead in the 2026 Japan Series after defeating the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in two consecutive games. The second game was a tense 4-3 victory for SoftBank, decided in extra innings.

Key performances included a dominant seven-inning scoreless outing by SoftBank pitcher Liván Moinelo and a crucial relief appearance by closer Roberto Osuna, who secured a strikeout in the 10th inning to prevent a walk-off. SoftBank's Yuto Kawamura provided the decisive hit in the 10th inning to seal the win.

Analysts have highlighted the impact of recent trades on the series. SoftBank catcher Yuto Yamamoto, acquired from DeNA in May, has been a significant advantage due to his familiarity with DeNA's lineup. Conversely, DeNA's pitcher Takuto Ogata, also part of the trade, transitioned from a reliever to a starter and pitched in the second game.

As the series moves to the Mizuho PayPay Dome for Game 3, SoftBank is expected to start Haru Matsumoto, while DeNA will counter with Katsuki Azuma. Both pitchers enter the matchup with 12 wins this season.