Lotte's Koshiro Hiroike will start in the game against Softbank Hawks on the 8th.

Hiroike commented through the team, "In the last two games, I gave up runs early on and didn't get off to a good start, so tomorrow I'll be focusing on getting off to a good start. I've been able to adjust my condition, so I want to pitch with my fastball and not forget to enjoy the game."

So far this season, Hiroike has pitched 22 innings in 5 games, with a record of 0 wins and 1 loss and ERA of 3.27. This will be his first start against Softbank Hawks this season, but he pitched in relief in the game on April 5th, closer runs for 3 2/3 innings.