◇Saitama Seibu Lions vs. Tokyo Yakult exhibition game (7th, Haruno Sports Park)

Saitama Seibu Lions 's pitcher Kaima Taira delivered a strong performance, allowing only one hit and no runs over three innings.

In the top of the first inning, he walked Walk with one out, but then closer the next three batters to keep the runs at 0. In the top of the second inning, he retired the side in order. In the top of the third inning, he walked the leadoff Walk, but then struck struck out the next two batters in a row. He gave up hit to Hideki Nagaoka, but finally retired Yoshihiro Akabane with an infield grounder to finish his three runs innings.

This season, he was selected to represent Japan in the ongoing WBC, but unfortunately had to withdraw due to injury. He has been training with the season opener in mind, and this appearance was his first in a real game.

Written by Kai Nagi Niwa