Lotte's Koshiro Hiroike will start in the game against Nippon-Ham on the 23rd.

Hiroike commented through the team, "The team's condition and atmosphere are good, and we've been winning, so I hope I can ride that momentum and pitch well to secure a win. I've been able to pitch well in the last few games, so I want to maintain that going into the next game. I hope to start the game well, set the stage nicely, and hand it over to reliever pitchers in a good rhythm."

Hiroike has pitched 54 innings in 10 games so far this season, with a record of 2 wins and 2 losses and ERA of 3.17. This will be his first appearance against Nippon-Ham Fighters this season.