October 21st 18:00 NPB Yomiuri Yokohama Korea-Japan Baseball Analysis Sports Analysis
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On October 21 at 18:00, the Yomiuri Giants, who have returned from the depths of hell, will have Togo Shosei (1 loss, 2.84 ERA) on the mound for the series finale. Togo suffered a loss in the first game of the final stage on the 16th, giving up 2 runs in 6.1 innings, and the lack of a home run was a significant issue. While he is undoubtedly a strong pitcher with home-field advantage, the chances of a good performance are quite high. Despite winning the previous game, the Yomiuri lineup struggled significantly, scoring only from Nakayama Raito's solo home run in the 5th inning, with just 3 hits in total. It seems unreasonable to expect a rebound in this game. The bullpen, which held scoreless in 2.2 innings, must thank Kadowaki for his excellent defense.
Both teams have struggled with batting, leading to Yokohama DeNA BayStars being unable to clinch victory. Anthony Kay (1 win, 0.00 ERA) will start for the elimination game. Kay's strong performance, pitching 6 innings with only 1 hit and no runs in the first game of the final stage on the 16th, brings hope, especially since he has a good track record at Tokyo Dome. However, the four walks indicate a vulnerability that could lead to trouble at any moment. DeNA's lineup was shut out with 7 hits against Yomiuri's pitching the previous day, which clearly showed their issues when they fail to hit home runs. The struggles of the middle lineup have become particularly severe, and Yamazaki Yasuaki, who allowed a crucial home run upon entering, has been showing signs of fatigue.
It can be aptly described as a total showdown where neither team’s bats are heating up. Furthermore, both starting pitchers are stepping onto the mound after a demanding 4 days’ rest, and the bullpen is showing signs of weariness. In the end, while it’s a matchup of starters, Togo had a practice for pitching after 4 days’ rest back in September, whereas Kay has shown a tendency to struggle with insufficient rest, which is a painful reminder. The Yomiuri Giants, with an advantage in starting pitching, are closer to victory.
Predicted score: 3-2, Yomiuri victory
Record: 1 win, 1 loss
Handicap: DeNA victory
Over/Under: Under