◆ Pacific League Orix Buffaloes 5-3 Lotte (25th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes won a close game, achieving their first eight-game winning streak at home against Lotte in 58 years, since their ten-game winning streak in 1968. This marks their first series win in four series, putting them back in a positive win-loss record of +1. They have also secured a winning percentage of over 50% for the first half of the season.

In the 7th inning, with the score tied 3-3, Fukunaga hit a game-winning solo home run to left field. Manager Mamoru Kishida smiled at the home run from the fifth-year professional catcher, saying, "I was surprised. It was a great hit. I wondered, 'Is it going to go over the fence?' and it just went over. Nice batting. (In defense) Jerry wasn't in top form, so he thought of various strategies and led the team well."

On the mound, starter Jerry pitched five innings, allowing 3 runs. From the sixth inning onward, Iriyama, Yamazaki, Mukuoki, and Machado held the line runs. The manager expressed confidence, saying, “Just like yesterday, the bullpen is closer, so we’re keeping the games close.”

With only one match remaining in the first half of the season, he tightened the reins, saying, "There's still a long way to go. We really have to persevere and keep going."