The 17th game between Fukuoka Softbank and Chiba Lotte Marines will be held at MIZUHO PayPay Dome on August 13th at 6 PM.

[Head-to-head record] Fukuoka Softbank (1st place) vs. Chiba Lotte Marines (5th place): 11 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw

[Announced Starting Pitcher]
Fukuoka Softbank: pitcher C. Stewart Jr. 13 games, 6 wins, 4 losses, ERA 5.05
Chiba Lotte Marines: pitcher Haruya Tanaka 1 win, 5 losses in 10 games, ERA 4.83

Fukuoka Softbank is currently leading the league. While their batting lineup boasts a strong roster, it's also noteworthy that young players are playing. Soichiro Ishizuka played on the 12th as the 8th batter and first baseman, his first appearance since June. Also on the same day, Yudai Shoji batting 9th, starting line-up for the third consecutive game and recorded three hit on the 9th. Starting pitcher C. Stewart Jr. has been pitching well against Chiba Lotte Marines this season, with two wins in two starts.

Chiba Lotte Marines 's pitcher Haruya Tanaka will be making his first start since June 13th. On that day, he gave up 7 runs in the middle of the second inning and was sent back to the farm team for further adjustments. The team is currently on a six-game losing streak against Fukuoka Softbank. This will be a tough start for him on the first-team mound after a two-month absence, but he will be hoping to deliver results and regain the trust of the coaching staff.

Written by Kai Nagi Niwa