◇ Orix Buffaloes vs. Tokyo Yakult, "Nippon Life Interleague Series 2026," Game 2 (June 10, Kyocera Dome Osaka)

Orix Buffaloes Ryoma Yamanaka The player hit a timely RBI single.

The offense scored an early run in the first inning, but after that, they left eight runners on base, missing many scoring opportunities. However, in the bottom of the fifth inning, with two outs pitcher on first and second base, Yamanaka stepped up to the plate for his third at-bat. On the fourth pitch of the at-bat, with a 1-2 count, he connected with a fastball from opposing starter Keiji Takahashi. The ball dropped in front of left field, giving them a much-needed additional run.

Yamanaka has played in 16 games so far, boasting a batting average of .292 and demonstrating clutch hitting with a .545 batting average with runners in scoring position. (Statistics are as of before the game.)

◇Comment from Yamanaka
"I went for the shot aggressively, and I'm glad it went to a good spot."

Written by Aoi Nishijima