[Orix Buffaloes] Jerry to make his fourth start in pursuit of the longest win in Japan and the US: “His pitch technique is truly amazing,” inspired by fellow foreign players.
Sports Hochi
April 28, 2026 05:00
Orix Buffaloes ‘s new foreign pitcher, Sean Hjelle, will start against Softbank Hawks on the 28th (at Kyocera Dome). This will be his fourth appearance mound, and he will be aiming for his first win since coming to Japan. On the 27th, he trained at the team’s facilities in Maishima, Osaka. He has pitched well in all three of his previous starts, showing consistent pitch with ERA of 2.00, but has not yet been blessed with a win. However, he said, “I’m not worried about my own statistics. I’m focused on pitching in a way that will lead to a team win.”
In the Majors, he is the tallest player ever (213 cm) pitcher and has won 7 games, and since the former NPB’s tallest player (216 cm) Rakuten Eagles Fan Mill has not win won any games, he is expected to set a “tall record” win pitcher in Japanese baseball as well. The same opponent as the last time he pitched, but on the 19th (Mizuho Peipay D), he pitched 6 innings and 1 runs well. He said calmly, “I don’t think Softbank Hawks that changes anything. I’ll pitch the same way I always do,” he said calmly.
His pitch pitch is truly amazing. He competes well within strike zone, and he gets batters to hit the ball by moving it around. I love watching games when Espinoza is on the mound,” he said, looking at him with admiration. Regarding the good performance of the new foreign hitter, Seymour, he smiled and said, “baseball players have good days and bad days, but I’m not worried about him lately, and I’m looking forward to his future performance.” With the power of their foreign players, they are maintaining their lead.