Hsu Jo-Hsi Scratched from June 24 Start; Coach Says He Is Not Ready to Pitch

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks pitcher Hsu Jo-Hsi, originally scheduled to start in a top-team game tomorrow, has been removed from the rotation due to physical issues. Pitching coach Shinji Kurano stated that Hsu is currently not in a condition to pitch immediately, noting that further rehabilitation plans will be determined pending medical test results.

Following the withdrawal, the Hawks have named left-handed pitcher Toshiya Nakamura as the replacement starter for tomorrow's game against the Orix Buffaloes at Fukuoka PayPay Dome.

Hsu’s previous top-team appearance was on June 7 against the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, where he pitched six innings and allowed two runs in a no-decision. He was subsequently sent down to the farm team, where he made a relief appearance on June 14, striking out six batters over three scoreless innings while reaching a top speed of 156 km/h. He was expected to return to the top-tier roster tomorrow.

According to Japanese media reports, Hsu experienced physical discomfort during practice yesterday and was moved to indoor training. Although he was present at the Fukuoka Dome today, he did not participate in on-field practice.

Coach Kurano remarked to the media, "Hsu is not in a state to pitch right now, or more specifically, he is not in a condition to pitch for the top team." The duration of his recovery will depend entirely on the results of the upcoming medical examinations.