Lin An-ko's Two Hits Help Seibu Lions End Losing Streak

Taiwanese power hitter Lin An-ko is finding his rhythm at the plate, contributing two hits in the Seibu Lions' 6-3 victory over the Rakuten Golden Eagles on Sunday. This performance snapped the Lions' two-game losing streak and boosted Lin's batting average to .218.

Lin, batting fifth as the designated hitter, faced Rakuten's veteran pitcher Jose Urena, who has 44 wins in his Major League Baseball career. In the second inning, Lin hit a fly ball to right field. However, in the third inning, he connected for a single to center field off Urena as the Lions scored four runs, aided by timely hits from Aya Nishikawa and a three-run homer by Taiga Kojima.

Rakuten briefly closed the gap with a three-run homer from YG Yasuda in the next half-inning. Lin was later hit by a pitch in the sixth inning. The Lions extended their lead in the seventh inning with a double from Takuya Hiruma, a triple by Aya Nishikawa for the fifth run, and a sacrifice fly from Taiga Kojima, who drove in his fourth run of the game.

Lin added another single to right field in the eighth inning. Seibu Lions ace Takahashi Kōshun pitched six innings, allowing three runs while striking out five batters, to secure his eighth win of the season. Urena, who pitched six innings and gave up four runs, was handed his fourth loss.

Lin An-ko's recent offensive surge is a welcome sign for the Seibu Lions as they aim to improve their standing in the league. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial for the team's success moving forward.