CHIBA, Japan (Interstat) — The Pacific League-leading Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, boasting the circuit’s best record, visit the Chiba Lotte Marines for a Sunday evening matchup on Oct. 5, 2025, at Chiba Marine Stadium.

The Hawks (87-51-4) enter the contest after a commanding 10-2 victory over the Orix Buffaloes on Friday, powered by a four-RBI, home-run performance from third baseman Ryoya Kurihara. Their pitching was equally dominant, with Naoyuki Uwasawa and Haru Matsumoto combining for 3 2/3 scoreless innings of relief.

Conversely, the Marines (56-84-2) are coming off a 3-0 shutout of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters on Saturday, fueled by a stellar five-inning, one-hit outing from starter Atsuki Taneichi.

Despite SoftBank’s commanding position in the standings, the season series has been competitive. The teams have split their last 10 meetings, though Lotte won the most recent encounter 9-1 on Sept. 11. The Hawks hold a slim 8-7 edge in the head-to-head matchups this season.

Weather could be a factor, with rain and a game-time temperature of 71 degrees Fahrenheit forecast.

According to Interstat, the Hawks are heavy favorites. Their ELO system gives SoftBank a 67.40% probability to win, and their game simulator projects a 5-3 victory for the visiting Hawks.