Dragons Rookie Masaki Nakanishi Earns First Pro Win in Comeback Victory Over Tigers
In a thrilling matchup at Vantelin Dome against the Hanshin Tigers, Chunichi Dragons' first-round draft pick Masaki Nakanishi secured his first-ever professional victory. Making his third start of the season, the rookie right-hander pitched seven gutsy innings, allowing three hits and three runs while leading his team to back-to-back wins. The game got off to a rocky start for Nakanishi, who found himself in early trouble as the Tigers' lineup jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first inning. However, the Dragons' offense responded immediately. In the bottom of the same inning, Seiya Hosokawa ignited the crowd with a clutch three-run home run—his fourth of the season—to turn the tide. The momentum continued with a home run from Yuta Ishii and an insurance RBI hit from Toshiki Abe, affectionately known by fans as "The Master," showcasing a perfect synergy between pitching and hitting. After the shaky opening frame, Nakanishi settled into a rhythm, delivering a commandi...