Yakult Swallows suffer seventh loss in eight games against Chunichi Dragons

The Yakult Swallows suffered their seventh loss in eight games following an 8-4 defeat against the Chunichi Dragons at Jingu Stadium. Despite a mid-game rally where Jose Osuna hit a three-run home run to tie the game, Yakult surrendered four runs in the seventh inning. Manager Takahiro Ikoyama expressed frustration over the team's negative momentum.

In other NPB action, the Yomiuri Giants are preparing for matchups involving pitcher Masahiro Tanaka, who is aiming for his 204th career win in Japan and the US, and rookie Kazuki Takemaru, who is chasing significant milestones for the franchise. Meanwhile, Hiroshima's Hiroki Morishita faces the possibility of a third consecutive season with double-digit losses.