◆ Pacific League: Orix Buffaloes vs. Rakuten Eagles (28th, Hotto Motto Kobe)

Orix Buffaloes ・ Kaito Saiki pitcher joined the pre-game practice in Kobe on the 28th ahead of the game against Rakuten Eagles. The right-hander, now in his fourth pro season, underwent arthroscopic osteophyte removal and loose body removal surgery on his right elbow in October 2025.Having overcome upper-body injuries, he made his return to competitive action on the 19th in a farm team exhibition game against Rokitechno Toyama (City Shinkin Bank), pitching one inning with a line of 1 hit no runs and closer.

In 2025, he had a career-high 38 games, recording 4 saves and 11 hold ERA of 1.87. Among the relief pitchers, Mukunoki and Machado are solid in the 8th and 9th innings, while Iwasaki, whom he looks up to as a mentor, Teranishi, Yamazaki, and Yoshida are also fighting hard. "The situation is completely different from last year. I want to get results in the minor leagues again and get called up to the major leagues," said the speedy reliever, who was aiming for an early return. With his fastball that consistently exceeds 150 km/h and fork, he will once again overwhelm hitter.