It was decided on the 17th that Orix Buffaloes pitcher Sean Hjelle (29) will start in the game against Nippon-Ham on the 18th (Kyocera Dome). The 213cm right-hander, in his first year in Japan, had been pitch steadily since the start of the season, but in his last two games he was pulled in the middle of the third inning in both games. He was removed from the active roster on the 8th and has been undergoing readjustment in the minor leagues ever since.

"It's natural to learn from failure. There were a few small physical issues, but mentally, I said, 'I'll pitch hard next time.'" During the 10 days, he cleared bullpen pitch and gradually improved his form. In his previous match against third-place Nippon-Ham, who is chasing by 4 games (June 30, Escon), he lost his fourth loss with 9 hit 5 runs in 2 1/3 innings. "There were home run, but also weak hits. The size and height of the wall are completely different between Escon and Kyocera," he emphasized approaching with a fresh mindset.

On this day, he trained in Maishima, Osaka. "I've experienced temperatures close to 90 fahrenheit (about 32 degrees Celsius) in America, so it doesn't bother me in particular," he said, indicating that Japan's intense heat is not a problem. With Miyagi and Yamashita absent this season due to elbow surgery, and Soya also sidelined for conditioning reasons, pitcher staff is looking to secure a big win for both himself and the team.