The 21st game between Chiba Lotte Marines and Fukuoka Softbank will be held at Zozo Marine Stadium from 6:00 p.m. on August 29th.

[Match record] Chiba Lotte Marines (6th place) vs. Fukuoka Softbank (1st place) 6 wins, 13 losses, 1 draw

[Announced starting pitchers]
Chiba Lotte Marines: Pitcher pitcher 18 games with 2 wins and 7 losses, ERA of 3.84
Fukuoka Softbank: Naoyuki Uwasawa pitcher 9 wins and 6 losses in 17 games, ERA of 3.09

Chiba Lotte Marines 's batting line-up has recorded double-digit hit for two consecutive games. In particular, Kyota Fujiwara has had three hit in two consecutive games, and he will be hoping to continue getting on base as the leadoff batter. Here are the comments from pitcher of the scheduled starter:

"My condition is improving. I think I'm able to vary the speed pitch. I'm able to throw strong balls into the zone, and I'm satisfied with my mechanics. I think I'm in top form, so I'll be confident when I take to mound. I've already pitched in three games against The Hawks, so I have a good grasp of the opposing hitter' tendencies and how to counter them. I want to use that to my advantage and create a game that will lead to victory for the team."

Meanwhile, the leading team, Fukuoka Softbank has stopped their losing streak at four. pitcher Naoyuki Uwasawa has achieved a QS in three consecutive games. He will be looking to play well in the first game of the series and fulfill his role as a starter. Taisei Makihara, who has a batting average of .415 this month, has recorded hit in 14 consecutive games and has also had multiple hit in four consecutive games, maintaining his good form.

Text by Ayako Kikuchi

・ Pacific League standings /individual results