[Orix Buffaloes] Manager Kishida's "killer move": After giving up two runs early on, starting pitcher Tajima is replaced in the first inning with Kaede Yokoyama | Pacific League

[Orix Buffaloes] Manager Kishida employs a "killer tactic," replacing starting pitcher Tajima, who gave up two runs early in the game, with Kaede Yokoyama in the first inning.

Sports Hochi

March 29, 2026 14:11

Starting Daiki Tajima (Photo by Shuji Asada)

◆ Pacific League: Orix Buffaloes vs. Rakuten Eagles (29th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes manager Mamoru Kishida pulled starting pitcher Tajima in the first inning. He had entrusted him with mound for the third game of the season as a replacement for Jerry, who prioritized his conditioning, but Tajima gave up triple to the leadoff batter Sato, followed by doble to Nakajima, giving up the first run. Then, with one out and a runner on third, McCusker sacrifice fly to center field. Having taken a one-run lead in the very next inning, Kaede Yokoyama from the second inning.

The manager's "killer tactics" aimed at winning the opening series, also emphasized a tough approach.