Softbank and DeNA to face off in Japan Series, total annual salary difference more than double

This year's Japan Series will feature the same card as 2024.

Softbank won the Pacific League for the third time in a row in the regular season (RS), and DeNA won the Climax Series (CS) from third place in the Central League. Two years ago, DeNA advanced from 3rd place in the league, lost 2 in a row, won 4 in a row, and became number one in Japan in the ``Gekokujo.''

Softbank wins 3 consecutive games in CS, DeNA wins all 6 games

Both showed overwhelming strength in CS.

Softbank had a 10-game difference over second place and below in the RS, and due to new regulations starting this year, the final CS stage will be limited to a maximum of seven games (5 wins, first to win), giving them a two-win advantage.

In the final stage, they came from behind to beat 3rd place Nippon-Ham in 3 consecutive games. Pitcher Yugo Maeda, fielder Tomoya Masaki and others made great strides this season, and Yudai Shoko was named MVP.

Although DeNA had a maximum loss of 15 in RS, it has improved since the summer. In the CS, they won two consecutive games against the Giants in the first stage, and won four consecutive games against Hanshin in the final stage.

They allowed a total of 2 runs in the 2 games against the Giants, and 5 runs in the 4 games against Hanshin, highlighting the quality of their pitching staff.

This year's exchange match was held in Yokohama and DeNA had 1 win and 2 losses.

May trade is positive for both sides

On May 12th, both teams announced a major trade, which is unusual for the season. DeNA sent out regular catcher Yudai Yamamoto and acquired Softbank's right-hander Takato Ogata and right-handed infielder Tomoya Inoue. Although fans were mixed when it was announced, Yamamoto became a key player in both offense and defense in his new home, while Ogata won seven games and Tomo Inoue hit two home runs, each contributing to the team.