The Orix Buffaloes ended an eight-game losing streak against the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks with a thrilling 5–4 victory at Mizuho PayPay Dome, capped by a game-winning hit from Taishi Hirooka in the top of the ninth inning.
Hirooka Delivers in Clutch Moment
With the game tied 3–3, Hirooka singled with one out and the bases loaded, driving in two runs to give Orix the lead. Yutaro Sugimoto followed with a sacrifice fly, pushing the advantage to 5–3. Although SoftBank’s Kensuke Kondo hit a solo homer in the bottom of the ninth, closer Kaito Saiki held on to secure the victory.
Key Contributions
- Orix Buffaloes:
- Alen Kuri allowed just one run in five solid innings.
- Kenya Wakatsuki sparked a three-run rally in the sixth with a triple.
- The bullpen — Kaede Yokoyama, Sho Iwasaki, and Soichiro Yamazaki — combined for four scoreless innings to preserve the lead.
- Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks:
- Kensuke Kondo went 3-for-4, including a solo home run and a double.
- Naoyuki Uwasawa pitched seven innings, allowing three runs and striking out three.
Despite totaling 11 hits, SoftBank was unable to capitalize in crucial late-game moments, falling short in a tightly contested matchup.
Looking Ahead
The win boosts Orix’s confidence as they head into the final stretch of the season, while snapping a frustrating streak against a division rival. With momentum back on their side, the Buffaloes aim to build on this performance in upcoming games.
