◆パ・リーグ　オリックス３―５西武（２１日・京セラドーム大阪）

Seibu Lions manager Nishiguchi revealed his future approach to using pitchers in save situations in the ninth inning, saying, "I'm not sure if we'll make a definite change. We'll see how the situation goes. We don't know who will go in, but today it's Kaihino."

In the ninth inning with a two-run lead, Hiroshi Kaino pitcher came in as the fourth pitcher. Kaino had runners on first and third with one out, but was aided by the strong arm of his wife, Yu Koga, and ended the game with no runs. As a result, Iwaki = Chudai= in the second draft pick, who had served as the closer since the start of the season, never moved up to mound.

On the 19th, in the game against Orix Buffaloes (Kyocera D), Iwaki came in as the sixth pitcher from the ninth inning with a one-run lead. With one out, Ota pitched to right field, giving up a game-tying solo homer for the second consecutive game. After that game, manager Nishiguchi commented on his left-hander, saying, "He's been hitting a home run recently, so I want him to stay focused on that. Also, I hope his pitch gets a bit sharper. (From now on) pitcher I think I'll consider it while consulting with the coach," suggesting the possibility of reconsidering his usage.