New Rakuten Monkeys slugger Vodnik hits two-run homer to secure win

Rakuten Monkeys' new foreign slugger, Victor Vodnik, made an immediate impact, driving in the game's only runs with a two-run homer in the sixth inning to secure a 2-0 win against the Fubon Guardians. The victory provided crucial support for pitcher Lin Tzu-wei, who had delivered six strong innings.

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Winning today feels even better.

Vodnik's home run came against Fubon's foreign pitcher, Mike Montgomery, a former teammate from their time in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball. Vodnik played for the Yomiuri Giants in 2022, the same year Montgomery was with the Hanshin Tigers. While Vodnik recalled facing Montgomery, he did not remember specific details of their previous encounters.

"Winning today feels even better," Vodnik said after the game, smiling. He noted that his home runs have varied in distance throughout his career, emphasizing that getting the ball over the fence is what matters most. He also praised his local teammates, expressing happiness at playing alongside them and securing the win.

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I remember we faced each other, but I don't remember the process or the details.

Experiencing the atmosphere in Taiwan's top league for the first time, Vodnik described the cheering music and dances as vibrant and fun, likening the overall experience to a party. This series marks his debut in the CPBL, and he has already hit two home runs in his first three games, introducing himself effectively to the league and its fans.

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Taiwan's cheering music and dances are very lively, and the atmosphere is like a party, which is very fun.