[Seibu Lions] With Nishikawa injured, Wakabayashi Rakuto, who transferred from The Giants, is promoted to the starting lineup as the "number 9 hitter and center fielder" and says, "I have no choice but to do it"... Starting starting line-up for the game against Orix Buffaloes | Pacific League

[Seibu Lions] With Nishikawa injured, Wakabayashi Rakuto, who transferred from The Giants, has been promoted and will start immediately as the "number 9 hitter and center fielder" in the game against Orix Buffaloes. "I have no choice but to do my best"...Starting starting line-up

Sports Hochi

August 1, 2026 16:58

Rakuto Wakabayashi, who will be starting the game (Photo by Shohei Uemura)

◆ Seibu Lions Pacific League: Seibu vs. Orix Buffaloes (August 1st, Belluna Dome)

Seibu Lions will play against Orix Buffaloes at 5 PM (Belluna Dome).

The night before, he ran out of energy in the extra inning 11th inning and lost a fierce battle that lasted 4 hours and 46 minutes. Rakuto Wakabayashi outfielder, who joined the first team and was removed from the roster due to a left leg Manaya Nishikawa outfielder injury, immediately started as the ninth batter and center fielder. Due to an emergency, he joined the first team earlier than originally planned, saying 'It's a last minute,' but he gave his all and led the team to win.

The starting pitcher Yutaro Watanabe, who is aiming for his fifth win.

Seibu Lions' starting line-up is as follows:

1 (2) Takizawa

2 (Left) Hiruma

3 (DH) An-Ko Lin

4. Nevin

5 (3) Hirasawa

6 (right) Canario

7 (catcher) Yu Koga

8 (Shortstop) Genda

9 (Center) Wakabayashi

Starting pitcher: Yutaro Watanabe