The Chiba Lotte Marines almost didn't make the playoffs. Now they've got their sights set on reaching the Japan Series.
The Marines are flying high after rallying past the Seibu Lions on consecutive days to sweep through the first stage of the Pacific League Climax Series last weekend.
Adding to their confidence is the play of catcher Tomoya Satozaki, who was 4-for-4 with four RBIs in the first stage, big contributions from Toshiaki Imae and Tadahito Iguchi and a nice series from most of their relief pitchers.