Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks by 2
If we look at this upcoming clash between the Saitama Seibu Lions and the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks, it's pretty clear the odds aren't slanting towards a thrilling Lion's victory. The Hawks swoop down on their opponents with an intimidating regular season record of 49 wins to a mere 20 losses, making them the NPB's apex predator this season. Our poor Lions, on the other hand, seem to be limping through the savannah with 23 wins and 48 losses.
Past matchups also seem to echo this sentiment. The Hawks, true to their predatory nature, have consistently managed to outscore the Lions. Let's recall, there's been no roar of victory from the Lions during their last five meetings with the Hawks.
With our feathery friends from Fukuoka having recently dealt with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters and the Orix Buffaloes quite convincingly, their confidence must be soaring. Conversely, the Lions must be near exhaustion, barely scrapping together with some underwhelming results against Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles, and even a draw with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters.
Given all this, my sharp-as-a-talons intuition tells me this could lead to another flight of victory for the Hawks - and by their natural predatory margin too.
Albert’s Prediction: Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks by 2