Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks vs. Yokohama DeNA BayStars: NPB Japan Series Game 5 predictions, odds and picks - Oct 31, 2024

The Yokohama DeNA BayStars have leveled the NPB Japan Series after shutting out the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Game 4. The BayStars have clawed their way back from a 0-2 series deficit and are one game away from completely obliterating the home-field edge of the SoftBank Hawks.

At the moment, both teams have each won two games in their opponent's home ground. The pivotal Game 5 would dictate who takes the lead as the series shifts back to the BayStars home in Yokohama.

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Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks vs. Yokohama DeNA BayStars - Recent form and records

The Yokohama DeNA BayStars have won consecutive games in the NPB Japan Series on the road. This might seem too tall of a task for any other team, but not for Japan's Cinderella squad. Yokohama won the first stage of the Central League Climax Series at Koshien Stadium, the home of the Hanshin Tigers.

In the final stage of the CL Climax Series, the BayStars won the first three games of the tilt at the Tokyo Dome, home of the Yomiuri Giants, before eventually winning the series-clinching Game 6 at the same venue.

On the other hand, the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks have lost back-to-back games in the Japan Series for the first time since 2017. Interestingly, the 2017 BayStars were the responsible party for the feat. The squad also lost their first consecutive games at home since September 17 and 18 this year after succumbing to the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters on both occasions.

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Players to watch

Starting pitchers

Tomohisa Ohzeki, Hawks (8-4, 2.50 ERA in regular season)

Due to the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks' dominance, manager Hiroki Kokubo kept his rotation short postseason. However, his hand will be forced as the team goes to uncharted territory in Game 5.

Tomohisa Ohzeki will get the nod to start the pivotal game against the BayStars' microwave offense. The 2022 All-Star tallied an 8-4 record with a 2.50 ERA and 77 strikeouts during the regular season.

Hitters

Masayuki Kuwahara, BayStars

Kuwahara excelled in back-to-back games for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. The outfielder has driven in three runs, including a solo blast in Game 3. Expect him to continue the hot streak into Game 5.

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Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks vs. Yokohama DeNA BayStars Baseball Betting Odds

Moneyline	Run Spread	Total Runs
Hawks -145	Hawks -1.5	Over 6.5 -110
BayStars +127	BayStars +1.5	Under 6.5 -106

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Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks vs. Yokohama DeNA BayStars Expert Predictions

Pretty much like any other sport, baseball can be a game of momentum. The BayStars have already proven they can dominate the best teams in the league and even do it away from home. Expect a slim victory for Yokohama.

Run Spread: +1.5

Total Runs: Under 6.5

Prediction: Hawks 3, BayStars 4