[Orix Buffaloes] Hitomi Honda removed from active roster after being hit in the neck area by line drive the previous day. Although he said he was "okay," the decision was made as a precaution.

Sports Hochi

August 23, 2026 11:06

Orix Buffaloes Hitomi Honda (center) leaves the game after being hit in the neck area by a batted ball during the game against Softbank Hawks on the 22nd.

Orix Buffaloes pitcher Hitomi Honda has been removed from the active roster. He was forced to leave the game on the 22nd against Softbank Hawks (at Mizuho PayPay Dome) when line drive from Dai Makihara hit him near the neck. After the game, he emphasized that it was a minor injury, saying, "I think it's just swelling and pain, so I think I'll be okay," and he went to the hospital as a precaution.

In his ninth professional season, he was promoted back to the main roster at the end of July after being in the minor leagues. He had pitched in two games so far this season. He is scheduled to undergo another examination after the 24th, and is expected to be a valuable asset to bullpen again.