◆ Pacific League Softbank Hawks 6X-5 Orix Buffaloes (23rd, Mizuho PayPay Dome)

Orix Buffaloes manager Mamoru Kishida (45) expressed his frustration. "We haven't been able to win at all since the end of June. In terms of standings and our current condition, things are still tough." This was their first walk-off loss of the season, and their third consecutive series loss. They are now back to a deficit of one game, and for the first time since he became manager 25 years ago, they have also suffered two consecutive months of losing records.

Just after Kurebayashi's 12th three-run homer over the left fence tied the game, in the ninth inning, sixth pitcher Mukugi gave up a walk-off single over center field to pinch hitter Yanagida with one out and bases loaded. Following the heavy defeat on the 2 runs 2nd, the pitcher lineup failed to hold on, and the manager bit his lip, saying, "We keep getting hit in painful situations." Meanwhile, Yamaguchi, a second-year right-hander making his first appearance and start this season, pitched 5 hit 3 runs through the fifth inning. "He showed a good pitch. He's got guts, and I'm looking forward to what's next. I think it could inspire various pitcher camps," he said, seeing some light in the lose.

Starting on the 24th, they will play their final three-game series against Lotte at their home stadium, Kyocera Dome, before the All-Star break. "We have to fight hard and win each and every game. They won't let us win that easily, so we have to do our best," he said, looking only ahead. (Shunta Nanbu)