Sky Perfect TV Announces Recipients of the Bye-Bye Award for September and October!

Sky Perfect TV has proudly announced the winners of the Bye-Bye Award for the months of September and October, celebrating the players who delivered the most impactful walk-off hits in the Central and Pacific Leagues. Since its inception in 2012, this award aims to recognize the players who, through their outstanding performances, help elevate the charm of professional baseball.

On October 22 (Wednesday), Yuto Sakamoto from the Yomiuri Giants took home the award for the Central League, while Yuya Ogō from the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles claimed the honor in the Pacific League. The award ceremony took place at various stadiums, where fans cheered for their heroes.

Comments from the Award-Winning Players

- Yuto Sakamoto (Yomiuri Giants):

“This is my fourth time receiving this award, and I truly appreciate being recognized for my efforts again. It feels great to deliver a walk-off hit in such a tense moment, especially in our final season match against the Hanshin Tigers. I will continue to strive for the team's victories and meet the expectations of our fans!”

- Yuya Ogō (Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles):

“Thank you for choosing my play among so many memorable moments. It was a tough match that extended to 12 innings, and I’m delighted to bring victory to our fans who supported us right till the end. I aim to secure a regular position next season and hope to win the Bye-Bye Award for three consecutive years. Your support means everything!”

Overview of the Award-Winning Plays

Central League: Yuto Sakamoto (Yomiuri Giants) - Fourth Win

Sakamoto achieved this honor for the fourth time, having won the award most recently in June 2023. On September 13 (Saturday), during the 25th game against Hanshin at Tokyo Dome, he executed a dramatic walk-off two-run hit in the ninth inning, with one out and runners on second and third base, concluding a high-scoring battle. The Yomiuri team initially fell behind, allowing three runs but managed to turn the game around with a grand slam in the first inning from teammate Nakayama. Although they faced a severe situation in the fifth inning, trailing by 10-6, they regrouped, scoring three runs in the seventh and creating an opportunity for Sakamoto. In a full count against Hanshin's pitcher, he swung hard at the sixth pitch, and his well-placed hit sailed through to center field, marking a thrilling comeback walk-off.

Pacific League: Yuya Ogō (Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles) - Second Win

In contrast, Ogō secured his second Bye-Bye Award since June 2024. On September 15 (Monday, holiday), he played a pivotal role in a dramatic 12-inning match against the Chiba Lotte Marines at Rakuten Mobile Park Miyagi. In the bottom of the twelfth, with no outs and no runners on, Ogō launched a powerful walk-off home run to right-center field, bringing the total score to 5-4. This moment capped a grueling match that lasted 4 hours and 21 minutes and marked the 2000th home run in the team's history, eliciting jubilant cheers from the fans.

What is the Bye-Bye Award?

The Bye-Bye Award is given to the player who delivers the most impactful walk-off hits during the month, helping promote the excitement of professional baseball. Sky Perfect TV has been a proud supporter since it began broadcasting every official game in both the Central and Pacific Leagues in 2006, showcasing the thrilling climaxes of each match to fans. This commitment to bringing the excitement of the final moments of every game facilitates professional baseball's growth and popularity. In addition to the monthly awards, a yearly grand prize for the most dramatic walk-off hit or walk-off play throughout the season is also awarded, further inspiring players to achieve greatness on the field.