September 29 NPB Seibu Chiba Lotte Japan-Korea Baseball Analysis Sports Analysis
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The underperformance of the batting lineup has resulted in a complete defeat for the Seibu Lions, as Yoza Kaito (1 win, 3 losses, 6.06 ERA) makes his return to the first team after a month. After suffering a 4 earned run loss over 3 innings in a home game against SoftBank on August 15, Yoza was sent down to the second team, and this game will serve as a significant test for his future. He previously faced Chiba Lotte on the road, allowing 4 earned runs over 5.1 innings, and his poor home pitching this year is a clear area of concern. In the previous game, Seibu's lineup wasted early opportunities, managing to score only 1 run, and has struggled to overcome their performance woes from the first game of the series. The lack of a run during a bases-loaded double play in the fourth inning was particularly detrimental. The bullpen, which gave up 5 earned runs over five innings, should likely part ways with Takahashi, whom they have been using at a discount.
With a harmonious blend of pitching and batting, the Chiba Lotte Marines look to overpower their opponents, led by Ojima Kazuya (11 wins, 10 losses, 3.74 ERA), who is aiming for his 12th win of the season. Ojima achieved success in a home game against Seibu on the 21st, pitching 7 innings and allowing only 1 earned run. He has been on a streak of two consecutive games against Seibu, pitching 7 innings with 1 earned run or less. His strength, particularly in day games, could be advantageous in this matchup. In the preceding game, Chiba Lotte was stifled by Ueda's pitching but managed to score 5 runs by attacking Seibu's bullpen, including a 3-run home run by Sato Toshiya. Sato demonstrated resilience by hitting a 3-run home run after a failed squeeze play. The bullpen, which held the opposition to no hits and no runs over two innings, needs Yokoyama Rikuto to perform well in high-pressure situations moving forward.
In the previous match, Seibu squandered their opportunities, completely changing the flow of the game. Considering their struggles against left-handers, it seems difficult for Seibu to bounce back. On the other hand, Yoza's pitching this year suggests that expectations should be lowered, while Chiba Lotte's lineup has improved on the road. With their starting pitchers ahead, the Chiba Lotte Marines are closer to victory.
Expected score: 5-2, Chiba Lotte wins.
Win/Loss: Chiba Lotte wins.
Handicap: Chiba Lotte wins.
Over/Under: Over