◆Exhibition game Yakult 0-4 Orix Buffaloes (14th, Jingu Stadium)

Orix Buffaloes pitcher Alen Kuri delivered a strong performance, allowing only three hit and no runs strike out six innings while striking out five. With ace pitchers Miyagi and Soya currently competing in the WBC, the right-hander, along with Yamashita, is a candidate for the opening pitcher. "I'm glad I was able to put together a solid game," he said, showing a degree of satisfaction.

Manager Mamoru Kishida praised Kuri, saying, "He was very good. It was pitch typical of Kuri. His fastball had good movement," and confirmed that his next appearance is scheduled for the game against Hanshin Tigers on the 21st (Kyocera Dome Osaka). Regarding when the opening pitcher will be decided, he only said, "It's about time. I'm honestly not sure myself... I'll decide after I get back to Osaka."