◆ Pacific League Seibu Lions 1-3 Orix Buffaloes (20th, Belluna Dome)

Orix Buffaloes won a close game against Seibu Lions, ending their four-game losing streak. Starting pitcher Espinoza pitched a strong game, allowing only four hit and one runs strike out innings while striking out nine, earning his 11th win (4 losses), tying him with Nippon-Ham 's Kato Takashi for the most wins in the league. Manager Kishida Mamoru praised Espinoza, saying, "He threw slider well to right-handed hitter at crucial moments, and his two-two seam fastball was also good. He also used his change-up effectively against left-handed hitter."

In the 9th inning with the score tied 3-1, closer Machado, who had given up a walk-off hit on the 19th, took the mound again. He retired all three batters in just six pitches, earning his 25th save. The manager said, "Machado was sure in the 9th. If he's going to get revenge, the sooner he comes. I'm glad he closer well," he nodded.

The team reduced their deficit to two games and prevented a five-game losing streak. Manager Kishida thanked the Venezuelan duo, saying, "Espi pitch well, and Machado closed it out nicely at the end. It was a great game."