[Orix Buffaloes] Daiki Tajima, making his exhibition game debut, was replaced after 61 pitches in the third inning. He held on in a pinch and pitched no runs making him a decent candidate for the opening rotation. | Pacific League

[Orix Buffaloes] Daiki Tajima, who made his first appearance in the exhibition game, was replaced after 61 pitches in the third inning. He persevered in a pinch and gave up no runs, and is on track to be included in the opening rotation.

Sports Hochi

March 8, 2026 14:12

Orix Buffaloes starting pitcher Daiki Tajima (photographer: Haruko Yoshimura)

◆Pre-season game Orix Buffaloes and Softbank Hawks (8th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes pitcher Daiki Tajima made his first appearance in the exhibition game, pitching three innings with four hit and no runs, before being replaced after throwing 61 pitches.

Although he never retired three batters, he showed tenacity while allowing runner on base. With two outs and the bases loaded in the second inning, he got Nomura to ground out to third base. Even in his ninth year as a pro, the left-handed pitcher is expected to be in the opening rotation. He will sort out his gains and weaknesses and begin the final stages.