◇Orix Buffaloes vs Saitama Seibu Lions 22nd Round (9th, Hotto Motto Field Kobe)

Saitama Seibu Lions expanded their lead to 6 points with a fierce 5-run onslaught.

In the top of the 4th inning with a 1-point lead, the leadoff batter Nevin reached base via a Hit by Pitch, followed by An-Ko Lin hitting a timely doble that dropped in front of the left field wall. After that, Taiga Hirasawa drew a Walk, and in a 2-out, 1st and 3rd base situation, Sosuke Genda added another run with a timely hit. Canario then drew a Walk to expand the opportunity to 2 outs and bases loaded, when Natsuo Takizawa blasted a timely triple to sweep the runners.

The Saitama Seibu Lions lineup showed a fierce 5-run onslaught with three timely hits in this inning. Natsuo Takizawa marked his first RBI since August 15th, and Sosuke Genda marked his first since August 19th.

◇An-Ko Lin Comment
"I hit a fork. I was able to firmly drive back the ball that floated high."

◇Sosuke Genda Comment
"I hit a fork. I'm glad I could drive in an additional run."

◇Natsuo Takizawa Comment
"I hit a shootball. I entered the batter's box with determination in the chance my seniors created for me. I'm glad I could sweep the runners."

Text by Ryo Aritake