Pacific League: Orix Buffaloes 1-5 Rakuten Eagles (25th, Kyocera Dome)

Rakuten Eagles came from behind to defeat Orix Buffaloes. Draft pick #2, Tatsuki Ito pitcher Waseda University), made his first professional start and earned his first professional win. "You only get one chance to make your first start, so I really wanted to win that time. I'm the type of person who's lucky when it comes to winning, so I think I was lucky today," he said excitedly.

In the first inning, he gave up two consecutive triples from the start, surrendering the opening run. Nevertheless, he held firm after that despite allowing runners. He handled the hitters by mixing a variety of pitches, such as cutters and change-ups, with a fastball that clocked in at a maximum of 152 km/h. His teammates took the lead in the sixth inning, and he secured his first win. Regarding the lineup's comeback, the right-hander smiled and said, "As for Muneyama-san, I faced him many times during our university days, and he was a tough hitter. I really felt how reliable he is when he's on your side."

Next time, he is expected to return and pitch in the September 1 game against Orix Buffaloes held in his hometown of Akita. "If I get to pitch, I want to properly reflect on today's pitch and try to come in better form next week," he said, looking to the next step.

◆ Itsuki Ito (いとう・たつき) Born August 24, 2003, in Misato Town, Akita. 23 years old. Started playing baseball in second grade and played in Rakuten Eagles Junior in sixth grade. At Miyagi Shuko Junior High, he was a national runner-up in third year. At Sendai Ikuei, he pitched in Koshien in the summer of his first year. In the spring of his third year, reached the quarterfinals of the Senbatsu tournament. At Waseda, he pitched from the spring of his first year. Contributed to three consecutive championships from the spring of his third year. In the spring of his fourth year, he achieved no hitter. Joined the Rakuten Eagles team as the 2nd pick in the 2025 draft. number２０。 He is 177 cm tall and weighs 85 kg. He bats and throws right-handed.