Sky Perfect TV Announces July Winners of the Sayonara Award!

Sky Perfect TV has officially announced the winners of the July Sayonara Award, which recognizes players with the most impactful game-winning hits. This prestigious award, initiated in 2012, honors one player from both the Central and Pacific leagues each month. Winners receive a trophy and a cash prize of 300,000 yen.

On August 14, 2023, Shogo Sakakura of the Hiroshima Toyo Carp and T. Nevin of the Saitama Seibu Lions were celebrated for their extraordinary performances. Both players showcased their skills in exhilarating ceremonies held at their respective stadiums.

Winner Comments

Shogo Sakakura (Hiroshima Toyo Carp)

Sakakura expressed immense gratitude upon receiving the award, emphasizing the honor of being recognized for his performance. Reflecting on a pivotal game against the Tokyo Yakult Swallows held on July 7, he recalled the critical moment when he stepped up to bat with a runner on base, aiming for a game-winning hit. He credited his focus on making good contact with the ball and executing the perfect swing against the opposing pitcher, Kihada. The thrilling moment culminated in a dramatic, two-run walk-off homer that not only secured a victory for his team but also elicited a wave of overwhelming support from the fans at Mazda Stadium.

Sakakura remarked, "Even though Mazda Stadium is one of the hottest venues in Japan, the passionate cheers from our fans have always uplifted us. With fewer games remaining in the season, I will concentrate on winning one game at a time. I urge our loyal fans to continue their unwavering support!"

T. Nevin (Saitama Seibu Lions)

Nevin, celebrating his first Sayonara Award recognition, shared his delight in achieving such a feat. During a match against Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters on July 22, Nevin hit a dramatic walk-off home run in the tenth inning, sealing the victory for his team. He approached the batting plate with the goal of making solid contact and was thrilled to execute this successfully.

He enthusiastically recalled the moment of celebration with his teammates and fans, stating, "The joy expressed by Ramirez after I crossed home plate filled me with excitement! I am sincerely grateful to my supportive teammates and passionate fans. With the countdown to the playoffs, I will ensure that I seize every opportunity. Let's aim for victory together!"

Summary of Award-Winning Plays

Shogo Sakakura claimed the Sayonara Award for the Central League for the second time, previously awarded in October 2021. In the decisive match against the Yakult Swallows, his walk-off homer not only marked a personal return to glory but also a highlight in a game that showcased the spirit of competitive baseball.

On the other hand, T. Nevin's monumental home run for the Pacific League signifies a major milestone in his career, providing a much-needed boost to the Lions as they pursue victories late in the season. His play encapsulates the determination of a player committed to leading his team into the playoffs.

About the Sayonara Award

The Sayonara Award has been a key part of Sky Perfect TV's initiatives since 2012, aimed at celebrating outstanding performances in professional baseball. This award reflects the thrill and drama that can unfold in baseball games, capturing the essence of the sport's competitive nature.

With it's ongoing commitment to broadcasting every official game from the Nippon Professional Baseball League since 2006, Sky Perfect TV continues to play a vital role in connecting fans with the excitement of live sports and contributing to the growth of baseball in Japan.

About Sky Perfect TV

Sky Perfect TV is one of Japan's largest multi-channel broadcasting services, offering a wide range of channels spanning sports, movies, anime, music, and variety shows. The service allows for flexible viewing options and boasts capabilities such as mobile viewing to cater to diverse viewer needs. As the company approaches its 30th anniversary in 2026, it remains dedicated to providing enriching experiences for fans and viewers alike.