We had five games Tuesday, but this is going to be short since the day job has required I do an early shift to write about MLB stuff. It’s also Roki Eve, so Wednesday will be more substantial. Sasaki will match up with Jharel Cottton, who Orix has been using as a short starter, a pitcher who has yet to be allowed to face a batter three times.

Tuesday’s games

Buffaloes 4, Marines 3: At Osaka Dome, Orix hit into three double plays but Leo Cedeno hit a third-inning grand slam off C.C. Mercedes (3-5). Orix’s Sachiya Yamasaki (7-2) June’s Pacific League pitching MVP, worked five innings and only faced one tight spot, but surrendered three runs.

The win moved Orix two full games ahead of the Hawks, with Lotte falling 2-1/2 off the pace.