Lotte's pitcher Haruya Tanaka (21) will start in the game against Seibu Lions on the 2nd (at ZOZO Marine Stadium) aiming for his second win of the season.

This will be his first appearance at home since the game against Softbank Hawks on April 4th, and he seems to be in perfect condition, saying, "The balls I'm throwing, including in bullpen and catch practice, feel the best they've been all year. I think I can approach the game with confidence."

Ace pitcher Taneichi was sidelined after suffering a "ruptured left Achilles tendon" in the game against Softbank Hawks on April 25th (Kumamoto), and he said with a somber expression, "It's really tough for me personally that Taneichi got injured, and I think it's a real blow for the team as well."

He said that he has put into practice many of the lessons he learned from wearing number 16, and that he believes there are many aspects of who I am today because of it. He expressed his determination to swing his arms with all his might, for Taneichi's sake, and contribute to the team's win, and to fight in each game starting tomorrow with renewed determination.