First NPB Homer is a Walk-Off, Lin An-Ko: 'Happy to Help the Team'

Lin An-Ko, starting as the 5th batter and designated hitter today, was unproductive in his first three at-bats, striking out twice. However, in the bottom of the 10th inning with one out, it was Lin An-Ko's turn. Facing Lotte's foreign pitcher Sam Long, on a 1-2 count, he attacked a 145 km/h fastball and sent it over the right-field wall for his first home run.

Seibu's manager Nishiguchi Fumio had called on Lin An-Ko on the 8th, saying, 'It's time for a long hit.' Today, in his 13th NPB game and 50th at-bat, Lin hit his first homer. In the post-game hero interview, he said he was aiming for a high pitch to create a long hit, 'I felt it would be a long hit, but I didn't expect it to be a home run.'

Regarding his first career NPB home run being a walk-off, Lin An-Ko said, 'I'm happy about the first homer, but I'm even happier that the team won and that I had a breakthrough with my first home run.' He also told the Japanese fans in Japanese, 'Thank you for always cheering for us. I look forward to your continued support.'

Lin An-Ko had hit two walk-off home runs in his CPBL career, the last one on June 10, 2025. He said, 'Coming here, the focus is on making solid contact every day. I believe the long hits and home runs will come soon.'

Seibu and Lotte were scoreless through the first 8 innings. Lotte scored first in the top of the 9th, and Genda Sosuke's hit tied the game in the bottom of the 9th, setting the stage for Lin An-Ko's home run in extra innings. Genda Sosuke said in his post-game interview, 'I was wondering who would step up to help the team win, and An-Ko did it. It's awesome.' (Editor: Chang Ya-ching) 1150412