[Orix Buffaloes] Ren Mukunoki struck out three consecutive batters in two consecutive exhibition games... With closer Machado participating in the WBC, manager Kishida says "there is definitely a possibility (for him to take over)" | Pacific League

[Orix Buffaloes] Ren Mukunoki struck out three consecutive batters in two consecutive exhibition games... With closer Machado participating in the WBC, manager Kishida says "there is definitely a possibility (for him to fill in)."

Sports Hochi

March 18, 2026 05:00

Ren Mukunoki takes the mound from the 9th inning (Photo by Haruko Yoshimura)

◆Exhibition game Orix Buffaloes 2-1 Hiroshima (March 17, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes Ren Mukunoki pitcher pitch He took the mound in the ninth inning, 2-1, and got three consecutive strike out hits off Montero, Kikuchi, and Noma. He coolly wiped the sweat off his face, saying, "I'm focused on the content, and my goal is to take more struck out than the number of games I play.

In the exhibition games, struck out three batters in two consecutive games. With closer Machado currently competing for Venezuela in the WBC, manager Kishida nodded and said, "There's definitely a possibility that he could be the substitute closer."