May Izumoto (54), a multi-talented personality and big fan of Orix Buffaloes Buffaloes, has belatedly reflected on the interleague games between the Central and Pacific Leagues. The action-oriented May attended the games against DeNA on May 26th (Yokohama) and against The Giants on June 2nd (Tokyo Dome). Although her record was one win and one loss, she "unilaterally" designated pitcher Alen Kuri (34) as the key player in the pursuit of first-place Seibu Lions.

To all Orix Buffaloes and Sports Hochi supporters, this is my first support column since March, "Mayu's Lifelong Devotion to Orix." I felt an intensity that rivaled that of Kyocera Dome! It was the interleague games. I enjoyed the famous fried chicken "Baykara" at Yokohama Stadium and savored the history of the Giants at Tokyo Dome. Kuri was the starting pitcher in both games. His determination not to leave mound was palpable.

He faces each hitter head-on and gives it his all. Not only does he show his fighting spirit, but he also handles hitting batters with Hit by Pitch with gentlemanly grace. Ace pitcher Miyagi and pitcher are recharging for next year. pitcher has the aura of a true pillar of the team, and I hope pitcher and Soya will work together to shut down The Lions and The Hawks lineups.

Actually, I bumped into pitcher Kuri in Osaka the other day. When I greeted him, he said, "May-san!"... He was so refreshing, I was almost drawn in. As someone who calls myself the "Self-Proclaimed Orix Buffaloes Cheerleading Captain," I'd like to "self-proclaimed" him as a key player.

And finally, let me make a quick announcement. My show is "Frank Club A" on cable TV station Baycom. It mainly focuses on supporting Orix Buffaloes, but also features segments on food and exploring towns. It airs on the first Monday of every month at 10:15 PM. I'm putting a lot of effort into this show, so please check it out!

(May Izumoto)

◆Mei Izumoto Born May 31, 1972, in Sakai City, Osaka. Age 54. She is mainly active as a personality on local Kansai television and radio, and also appears in dramas and movies as an actress. She is also an avid Orix Buffaloes fan, and in "Frank Club A" (cable television Baycom), in which she appears, she has featured many segments related to Orix Buffaloes. Her stage name "Mei" comes from the fact that she was born in May.