[Orix Buffaloes] Haruto Watanabe was substituted out of the game after crashing into wall… The team announced that he was “substituted out as a precaution.”
Sports Hochi
May 6, 2026 14:52
◆ Pacific League Orix Buffaloes vs. Lotte (June 6th, Kyocera Dome Osaka)
Orix Buffaloes Haruto Watanabe outfielder started at “No. 2, center field,” but was regrettably replaced midway through the game.
In the fifth inning with a two-run lead and one out, Ikeda hit a deep fly ball to left-center field, and he sprinted after it. He narrowly missed catch and crashed face-first into wall.
He collapsed on the spot and was unable to get up for some time. outfield and base running defense Matsui, trainers from both teams, and staff members carrying stretchers immediately rushed to his side.
Afterwards, he stood up on his own and was accompanied by a trainer to the first base dugout. After receiving treatment, he sprinted back to position. Nevertheless, when it was batting order to bat in the bottom of the inning, manager Kishida called for pinch hitter Nakagawa. The team announced, “Due to the impact of contact with wall, he was substituted as a precaution. He is currently resting and his condition is being monitored.” In his fifth professional season, he had established himself as the regular center fielder and had been making an impression with a batting average of .317, 3 Home Run, and 7 RBI.
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