Samurai Japan's Shugo Maki strokes a two-run single in the fifth inning against South Korea in a Premier12 game on November 15 in Taipei. Japan won the opening round showdown 6-3. (©KYODO)
Read the full story on SportsLook - Shugo Maki Delivers Key Hit in Japan's Triumph Over South Korea in the Premier12
Shugo Maki picked up where he left off in the Japan Series to lead defending champion Samurai Japan to a 6-3 win over rival South Korea in the opening round of the Premier12 tournament on Friday, November 15.
The Yokohama DeNA infielder played a key role in leading the BayStars to the Japan Series championship less than two weeks ago.
He was back at it on Friday night at Taipei Dome, hitting a clutch bases-loaded single in the fifth inning to score two runs and give Japan a 4-2 lead.
"We battled to the very end and I am happy to contribute to the win," said Maki.
Shota Morishita, one of the hottest hitters for Japan so far in the tourney, belted a two-run homer in the seventh to widen Japan's lead to 6-3.
Solid Pitching for Japan in Premier12 Showdown
Japan starter Hiroto Takahashi struck out eight batters while giving up two runs on seven hits over four complete innings.
Chihiro Sumida picked up the win after striking out six and giving up one run over three innings in relief. Taisei Ota retired the side in order in the ninth.
Continue reading the full story on SportsLook.
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Author: Jim Armstrong
The author is a longtime journalist who has covered sports in Japan for over 25 years. You can find his articles on SportsLook.
