Orix Buffaloes ・ It was decided on the 17th that Taisuke Yamaoka pitcher (30) will rejoin the first team for the first time in two months.The right-hander, who made his first start in three years on May 24 against the Seibu Lions (at Belluna D) but was knocked out after throwing 20 pitches in the first inning, has been working on his form in the farm system. He is expected to be used as a reliever, replacing Iwasaki and Gonda, who were removed from the active roster that day.

Yamaoka has returned to the starting rotation this season, but after being removed from the roster, he has mainly pitched in relief. In the farm league, he has posted ERA in 9 games. Last year, he recorded 18 hold points in 41 games. His fastball velocity, which had been a weakness, has recovered to the mid-140s km/h, and he and Yoshida are expected to be recalled to the first team for the game against Nippon-Ham on the 18th (Kyocera Dome).

The team suffered three straight losses to last-place Rakuten Eagles. Their lead, which was once as high as 10 games, has shrunk to just 1. Manager Kishida expressed his expectations, saying, "He's been pitching short stop inning, and his condition is improving. I just hope he can simply closer hitter out." His signature slider is still intact, and he could be the savior for pitcher staff, which is struggling with a shortage of pitchers.