The managers' selections for the "Mynavi All-Star Game 2026" (June 28th at Tokyo Dome, June 29th in Toyama) were announced on June 13th, and Orix Buffaloes pitcher Anderson Espinoza was among those selected.

Following his selection by the coach in 2024, his first year in Japan, this marks his second appearance on the dream stage in two years. "I feel honored to have been selected, and it's a special stage for me, so I feel very proud," he said, expressing his joy.

This season, he has been a key part of the starting rotation since the opening day, posting a stable 2.40 ERA in 14 games. In the game against Lotte on the 12th (at ZOZO Marine Stadium), he pitched well, allowing only two runs in seven innings, and earned his career-high eighth win (3 losses), the most on the team.

The right-hander, who mixes his fastball, which consistently approaches 150 km/h, with a variety of breaking ball, baffles hitter. "First of all, I want to relax and enjoy myself while pitching in my own style. And while doing that, I'd like to aim for struck out as well," he said, envisioning a great performance.

After arriving in Japan, he took Japanese language lessons and showed off his sharp Kansai dialect on the victory podium, proving his love for Japan. "There will be so many great pitcher gathered here, so I want to hear about all sorts of things, like what everyone thinks when they step onto mound, their approaches to pitching, and learn a lot," he said, looking forward to the unique interactions that only the All-Star Game can offer.