DeNA secured a series win over the Hanshin Tigers on the road last week. The bullpen held the Tigers scoreless in both games on the 8th and 9th, with pitcher Tora Nakagawa standing out. On the 9th, he worked the eighth inning with a 3-1 lead, striking out No. 3 hitter Morishita on a called third strike, fanning No. 4 hitter Sato swinging, and getting No. 5 hitter Maekawa to ground out to second. Nakagawa has now gone 12 consecutive appearances without allowing a run, relying on his forkball to deliver exceptional stability. (Reported by Keio Yamamoto)
The key storyline this week: Can DeNA break into the top three in the standings? Starting on the 15th, they face a direct clash with the third-place Yomiuri Giants. DeNA has a 2-4 record against Yomiuri this season and is looking for its first series win over them. In their last three-game set against the Giants (at Yokohama), DeNA allowed the first run in every game, making it crucial to score early this time. The team leads both batting average and runs scored in the Central League. The question is whether a well-connected lineup can build pressure from the opening innings.
In terms of roster moves and farm team updates: Infielder Yoshitomo Tsutsugo, who had been sidelined with upper body discomfort, has returned to game action. He appeared in a three-game series with the second team against Hayate, going 1-for-6 while playing defensively at first and third base, showing a steady recovery. On the other hand, pitcher Austin Cox (29, formerly of the Braves) underwent internal brace surgery on the ulnar collateral ligament of his left elbow and is expected to miss the remainder of the season.
Public relations information: The “YOKOHAMA GIRLS☆FESTIVAL” will be held during the three-game series against the Chunichi Dragons starting on the 12th at Yokohama Stadium. This year’s theme is “Bay☆Gyaru Mind.” On the 12th, the comedy duo Elf will attend, with Arisawa, who boasts an overwhelming gyaru mindset, appearing as the “Buchiage Captain” for the ceremonial first pitch.
