This article is part of our Dream11 Fantasy NPB series.
Yomiuri Giants (41-22-3) at Chunichi Dragons (32-31-4)
Wednesday, September 9th, 5:00 AM EDT
Projected Starters
Chunichi Dragons: RHP Yuichiro Okano (2-1, 4.82 ERA)
Yomiuri Giants: LHP Kazuto Taguchi (3-3, 4.40 ERA)
Game Preview
The Giants have won the last three games they've played against the Dragons and also edge them in the standings, so it's safe to say they could have the advantage in this matchup between two of the best teams in the Central League over the last few weeks. The Giants have been the class in the Central League all season long, though, and look like a bonafide title contender given what they've done in 2020. They won't have an edge in the pitching department, as they will start Kazuto Taguchi while the Dragons will counter with Yuichiro Okano. The Dragons' right-hander has slightly better numbers, but the matchup will be quite even.
Injuries
Ryosuke Hirata - Out - Elbow
7/23 1:30 AM IST - The Dragons deactivated Hirata on Monday due to a right elbow injury. One of the Dragons' more reliable batsmen over the past couple of seasons, Hirata was dropped from the active roster after struggling early on in the 2020 campaign. Over 73 plate appearances, Hirata was batting just .164. Masataka Iryo is expected to take over as the Dragons' primary option in right field in Hirata's stead.
Shun Ishikawa - Out - Hand
7/22 1:24 AM IST - Ishikawa was removed from the Dragons' active roster ahead of Tuesday's 4-0 loss
