In Japan’s Pacific League, two teams struggling at the bottom of the standings are set to clash in a pivotal matchup.
The Saitama Seibu Lions (6th) find themselves in a dire situation, mired in an 8-game losing streak with a dismal 1-9 record in July. At this rate, they’re on pace for a staggering 99 losses this season.
Meanwhile, last year’s league champions, the ORIX Buffaloes, have stumbled to 5th place, much to the dismay of their loyal fanbase.
The Lions will be desperate to secure their second victory of July and snap their losing skid. With the advantage of a holiday home game at BELLUNA DOME, Saitama turns to promising third-year hurler Shinya Sugai. The Buffaloes counter with Espinoza, boasting the league’s fourth-best ERA at an impressive 2.24.
The Essentials
Who: Saitama Seibu Lions (24-56) vs. ORIX Buffaloes (39-40)
When: Monday, July 15 at 6 p.m. JST
Where: BELLUNA DOME
What to Watch For
Lions’ Bats vs. Espinoza:
The Lions’ offense has been anemic, scoring a league-worst 180 runs – nearly half of what the pacesetting Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks have produced (336). Their team batting average is equally troubling at a league-low .204. Can this struggling lineup solve the puzzle of Espinoza’s consistent dominance?
Buffaloes Looking to Feast
While the Buffaloes can’t be overly confident in their own batting form (246 runs scored, .243 team average – both second-worst in the league), they’ll aim to capitalize on the Lions’ woes.
Sugai, making just his second career start, showed promise in his pro debut on June 6 against the Tokyo Yakult Swallows. Despite taking the loss, he battled through five innings, allowing three hits and two runs while striking out four. In two subsequent relief appearances, he’s tossed scoreless frames. All eyes will be on whether the Buffaloes can jump on the young arm early.
The Smart MoneyHandicap:
ORIX Buffaloes -1.5 (2.10)
Seibu’s lineup faces a tall order against the dominant Espinoza, and a late-inning rally seems unlikely given their recent form. There’s a strong possibility ORIX could grab an early lead and cruise to a comfortable victory.