◆ Pacific League: Orix Buffaloes vs. Rakuten Eagles (27th, Hotto Motto Kobe)

Orix Buffaloes pitcher Kazuma Sato has rejoined the first team after a two-month absence. The seventh-year left-hander, who came up through the development program, made the opening day roster as a reliever this season and posted a 3.00 ERA in four games. After being removed from the active roster on April 20, he adjusted his training as a starter in the farm system. Most recently, he pitched well in the game against Seibu Lions on the 23rd (at Carminique), giving up only two runs in seven innings.

With ace pitchers Miyagi and Yamashita absent from the starting rotation, Soya has been removed from the roster to prioritize conditioning, and Perdomo, who was moved from relief to this role, has also suffered an injury. He is expected to be a savior for the team.