Orix Buffaloes pitcher Sean Hjelle (29) promised on the 21st that he would deliver a milestone win for manager Mamoru Kishida (45). The youngest manager in the 12-team league, who took office in 2013, is one win away from his 100th career win after 186 games. The 213cm right-hander, who is scheduled to start against Seibu on the Seibu Lions (at Belluna Dome), said, "It would be great if I could contribute to that win. Everyone plays their best in every game, so we will fight to win," looking forward to his appearance in the game that would be a memorable one if they win.

Having recorded 7 wins in 93 MLB games, he joined Kishida's Orix Buffaloes this season. In his last start on the 14th against Rakuten Eagles (Rakuten Eagles Mobile), he struggled, giving up 3 runs in 3 innings, but so far, as a regular starter, he has maintained a stable pitch of 1 win and 2 losses with ERA of 1.85 in 6 games. "During games, he has a pretty scary look on his face (laughs). He has a serious expression, but he talks to me very kindly," he said jokingly, describing "Mamo-san's" generosity. "All the other coaches are wonderful people, but he's a wonderful manager," he said, expressing his gratitude for the support once again.

In the game Seibu Lions, he made his first appearance at the opposing team's home field, Belluna Dome. Ahead of the "battle for first place" against their rival, who is in second place by 0.5 games, he confidently stated, "Whether the opponent is in second place, first place, or last place, standings doesn't matter. What's important is that we win." (Shunta Nanbu)