The Orix Buffaloes aim to rebound this week after a mixed stretch, with all eyes on pitcher Ren Kuri and catcher Yuya Mori. Here’s a breakdown of last week’s highlights, this week’s key matchups, roster moves, and fan events.
**Last Week’s MVP: A Rainbow Stag Beetle**
The MVP wasn’t a player but a rare rainbow stag beetle discovered at Kyocera Dome Osaka before the May 5 game against the Lotte Marines. Manager Mamoru Kishida, smiling warmly, held the beetle in his hand. That same day, new foreign pitcher Sean Jerry earned his first win, and catcher Yuya Mori delivered a go-ahead hit, signaling his return to form. The team became the first in the Pacific League to reach 20 wins. The next day, pitcher Daiki Tajima also secured his first victory. The beetle seemed to bring good luck.
**This Week’s Key Matchup: Revenge Against Rakuten**
Orix faces a unique two-game series on the road against the Rakuten Eagles, where they lost both games last time. On May 12 in Hirosaki, Ren Kuri takes the mound. In their April 11 meeting, he was knocked out after allowing five runs in just four innings, his shortest stint since joining the team. This game offers a revenge chance, and he is expected to stop the team’s current losing streak. Meanwhile, Mori, who has shown signs of recovery with two home runs in a game earlier this week, will be key in driving the offense during the five-game road trip, which features smaller ballparks.
**Roster Moves & Minor League Updates**
A 20-year-old pitcher, Riku Miyakuni, who was promoted from the developmental roster on May 5, made his professional debut as a starter against Nippon-Ham on May 8. He allowed two runs on three hits over three innings. Manager Kishida hinted at another start soon. Infielder Sho Giboshi also returned to the active roster in late April after two years, and was added to the game roster on May 4. He has started in three games, recording two hits and two stolen bases while showcasing solid defense.
**Fan Engagement: Orix Day Main Visual Released**
The main visual for this year’s “Orihime Day” (female Orix fans) event, taking place July 18-20 (vs. Nippon-Ham) and July 24-26 (vs. Lotte), was released on May 11. The 11 selected Orix players (chosen by fan voting) are featured in a white-themed, natural-style outfit, embracing the theme of “being themselves.”
