Orix Buffaloes pitcher Anderson Espinoza (28) vowed on the 18th to deliver a great performance to welcome his newborn son. His first child, Kenzo, born in late February with his partner, is scheduled to arrive in Japan on the 20th. "I can't wait," he said, his heart filled with excitement ahead of his start against Seibu Lions on the 19th (at Kyocera Dome).

He has been video calling with his son almost every day during the season, watching him grow. His son's weight has increased from 3 kg at birth to 8 kg, and he showed his fatherly side by saying, "I miss him so much (when I can't see him)." "When he comes, we'll be able to eat good meals together, sleep well, stay in good shape, and my performance will improve even more." On this day, when he was adjusting at his home stadium, Kyocera Dome, he smiled as he imagined the new life that would soon begin.

He has a 0.00 ERA and two wins in two starts against league leaders Leo, who are 5.5 games behind this season. "Right now, my son is the most important thing to me." He secured his seventh win, tying his personal best, and will place the winning ball in his baby's crib. (Shunta Nanbu)