FUKUOKA (Kyodo) -- The SoftBank Hawks will give the ball to right-hander Carter Stewart Jr. as they attempt to take a commanding 3-0 lead over the DeNA BayStars in Game 3 of the Japan Series on Tuesday.

The 24-year-old American will be up against DeNA ace Katsuki Azuma as the best-of-seven series moves to SoftBank's Mizuho PayPay Dome in Fukuoka.

Stewart got the result in his previous start when the Hawks advanced from the Pacific League Climax Series final stage with a 3-2 Game 3 win over the Nippon Ham Fighters on Oct. 18.

Azuma will be making his first appearance since hurting his hamstring in the opening game of the Central League Climax Series first stage against the Hanshin Tigers on Oct. 12.

The 28-year-old southpaw is returning ahead of schedule from the injury but is adamant he will be "fully recovered." He circled Tuesday for his comeback as he does not need to bat at a PL ballpark where the designated hitter system is used.

"Ideally, I'll be able to impact the course of the game with my pitching," he said. "I just have to do it."

The PL champion Hawks are aiming for their first Japan Series title since 2020 and 12th overall, while the BayStars, who finished third in the CL, are seeking their third title and first since 1998.