This article is part of our Dream11 Fantasy NPB series.
ORIX Buffaloes (21-40-5) at Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles (33-30-3)
Saturday, September 5th, 1:00 AM EDT
Projected Starters
Golden Eagles: TBA
Buffaloes: TBA
Game Preview
The Buffaloes and the Golden Eagles are moving in opposite directions this season. While the Golden Eagles are in third place of the standings and firmly entrenched in the battle for a playoff berth, the Buffaloes are sitting dead last in the Pacific League standings and might very well start thinking about what they'll do in the 2021 season. When looking at the recent form, however, both teams have won just two of their last five contests. so both are in dire need of improvements – and soon. Neither team has announced its starting pitcher for this contest.
Injuries
Motoki Higa - Out - Biceps
7/9 4:26 AM IST - Higa was removed from the Buffaloes roster Wednesday due to an injury to his left biceps muscle, Full-Count.jp reports. Higa is a right-handed pitcher for Orix, so while his biceps issue appears fairly concerning, it's somewhat of a relief that the injury is to his non-throwing arm. The 37-year-old has been a trusted member of the Buffaloes bullpen so far during the young season, appearing in eight games and recording four holds while having yet to allow a run.
Shoki Katsumata - Out - Orbital
7/23 1:17 AM IST - Katsumata was diagnosed Wednesday with a orbital floor fracture of his right eye, Full-Count.jp reports. Katsumata sustained the injury after being hit in the eye during
