Kuribayashi Allows 5 Runs in 3.2 Innings, Vows to Address Issues for Next Start

(Taipei, June 14 – Reporter Hsieh Ching-wen) Taiwanese pitcher Yu-Yang Ku of the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters made a first-team start today against the Chunichi Dragons, pitching 3.2 innings and allowing 5 runs, with no decision. Ku expressed dissatisfaction with his performance, stating he will clarify his issues and work hard in practice for his next start.

Ku made his first first-team start of the season on May 2, pitching 4 innings and allowing 2 runs with no decision. He was sent down to the second team on May 3 for adjustments and returned to the first team today, starting at home at ES CON FIELD HOKKAIDO against the Chunichi Dragons.

In the top of the 2nd inning, Ku walked a batter with two outs, then allowed consecutive doubles to Yuta Ishii and Mikito Tanaka, giving up 2 runs. He then surrendered a single to Yuki Okabayashi, allowing a third run. In the top of the 4th, after another walk and consecutive hits, he allowed 2 more runs and was pulled before completing the inning.

Ku threw 74 pitches over 3.2 innings, allowing 6 hits, recording 2 strikeouts and 3 walks, with 5 earned runs. His fastball reached 153 km/h, and his ERA rose to 7.50. He exited with his team trailing. Although the Fighters briefly tied the game, Ku was not involved in the decision.

The team ultimately lost 5–9.

After the game, speaking to Japanese media, Ku assessed today’s outing as the worst of his first-team appearances this season. He noted that his bullpen session felt good, but his control faltered during the game. He said he will identify the issues that have surfaced and work hard in practice for his next start. (Edited by Chen Jen-hua) 1150614