◇ Tohoku Rakuten Eagles vs Chiba Lotte Marines 17th Round (20th, Rakuten Eagles Mobile Saikyo Park Miyagi)

Tohoku Rakuten Eagles 's Kenta Maeda pitcher pitched 113 pitches over 6 innings, throwing 7 hit 2 Walk 2 runs (earned runs 1).

In the top of the first inning, Ken Maeda gave up three consecutive hits from leadoff pitcher, giving up a run in the double play. In the top of the second, with two outs and a runner on second, a teammate's timely error allowed a run. After that, as in every inning, he carried runner pitch, but he made closer crucial moments, scoring 2 runs in the 6th inning (earned runs 1) to make the game.

Although he struggled early this season, since his start on June 25, he has continued his strong performances with five consecutive QS games. In his last appearance, he recorded win in 7 innings and 2 runs against Orix Buffaloes, achieving his 100th career NPB win. Veteran right-hander pitch with 168 wins in Japan and the U.S. will continue to be closely watched.

◇ Comment from pitcher Maeda
"With more pitches, I put out too much runner. As a result, I couldn't create the rhythm of the attack, and I felt sorry. I believe in them and cheer for them to come from behind." (Slightly frustrated)