Seibu Lions Lions pitcher Kosei Takahashi will start in the first game back in the league season on the 19th against Orix Buffaloes (at Kyocera Dome), aiming for his league-leading eighth win.

So far this season, he has appeared in 10 games, recording 7 wins (3 losses), tied for the league lead, and has the second-best ERA of 1.08, behind his teammate Taira.

In the interleague series, he pitched in three games, posting a 2-1 record. His only lose came on the 5th against the Chunichi (at Vantelin D), when—with the score tied 0-0 in the 9th inning with two outs and runners on first and second—he gave up a walk-off hit to Abe. He pitched effectively in every appearance and made a major contribution to the team’s first-ever championship.He was also with the team for the game on the 16th against Hanshin Tigers (Koshien), when the championship was clinched, and shared in the moment of triumph with the players.

On this day, he participated in starter practice held at Kyocera Dome. "I think the team will be able to return to the league games in good form after winning the interleague series, but I myself have not been particularly conscious of it and have been preparing as usual," he said, already shifting his focus to the league games. "I've been entrusted with the opening of the series, so tomorrow I will concentrate on throwing my pitches well and pitch in a way that will set the stage for the game and give the team momentum. I will do my best to keep the team's good momentum going," he vowed.