Koki Kitayama delivered a strong performance, pitching six innings of two-hit ball with eight strikeouts. This dominant display helped the Nippon Ham Fighters secure a decisive 10-0 victory over the Rakuten Eagles on Thursday, completing a sweep of their three-game series in the Pacific League.

Kitayama, celebrating his 26th birthday, walked three batters and hit one during his 104-pitch outing at Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi. The Fighters' offense provided ample support, collecting 16 hits and building an 8-0 lead within the first four innings, setting the stage for a comfortable win.

Kitayama acknowledged the offensive support, stating that the position players gave him a present with all those runs. He successfully navigated a bases-loaded situation in the second inning, further solidifying his performance.

On the other side, Rakuten's 40-year-old veteran Takayuki Kishi struggled, allowing the early runs. He conceded 12 hits over four innings, including a three-run home run to Tatsuki Mizuno in the third inning, which extended the Fighters' lead to 6-0.

Tatsuki Mizuno, the Fighters' shortstop, had a strong offensive showing, batting ninth and going 3-for-4 with four RBIs. He also contributed a single in the seventh inning, adding to the team's score.

In the Central League, the Hiroshima Carp emerged victorious against the Chunichi Dragons, winning 2-1 after a hard-fought 11-inning contest.