Taiwanese Pitcher Kōyō Gurin Set for Nippon-Ham Fighters Start, Manager Expresses Anticipation

Taiwanese fireballer Kōyō Gurin is set to make his return to the starting rotation for the Nippon-Ham Fighters, scheduled to pitch against the Chunichi Dragons on June 14. The game, held at the Fighters' home stadium, will see Gurin aim for his first victory of the season in Japan's top professional baseball league. Gurin, who recently celebrated his 26th birthday, began the season in the bullpen but was moved to the minors after struggling. He made his first start of the season on May 2, pitching four innings against the Orix Buffaloes, allowing two runs on five hits, including a home run, while striking out six and walking three. His fastball reached 154 km/h. Following that outing, he was optioned back to the minor league team. Since his last demotion, Gurin has made four starts in the minors, pitching 24.1 innings over five appearances with 29 strikeouts and an ERA of 4.81. The upcoming start against veteran right-hander Shōichi Inōe will be a crucial opportunity for Gurin to establish himself. Notably, manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo recently praised 21-year-old Taiwanese pitcher Sun I-Lei for his impressive debut, where he pitched six scoreless innings with eight strikeouts to earn his first career win. Shinjo specifically mentioned Gurin, stating, "With this, Gurin should also have more fighting spirit. I'm really looking forward to it."

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With this, Gurin should also have more fighting spirit. I'm really looking forward to it.