Kishi showed that even though he was young, he could handle the atmosphere of the Japan Series, and also demonstrated his rubber arm.

The second-year pro dominated the heavily favored Yomiuri Giants for a complete-game shutout, striking out at least one batter every inning and throwing a whopping 147 pitches in the process.

In an ironic twist, the first was former Giants pitcher Takashi Nishimoto in the 1981 Japan Series against the Nippon-Ham Fighters.

[citation needed] In Game 6 two days later, Kishi was called upon again, this time to save the Lions' season.

He replaced Lions starter Kazuyuki Hoashi and, on just two days' rest, threw 91 pitches in 5+2⁄3 scoreless innings as Seibu rallied to force Game 7.