SoftBank's Xu Ruoxi Scratched from Start Due to Condition; Nakamura Toshiya to Make First Start in Five Years

Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks pitcher Xu Ruoxi (シュー・ルオシー) has been scratched from his scheduled start against the Orix Buffaloes on June 24 due to a physical condition issue, the team announced on June 23. The Taiwanese right-hander did not participate in team pitching drills on June 22 and skipped his bullpen session two days before the game. Pitching coach Kurano stated that Xu was "not in a condition to pitch immediately" and noted that his registration had been removed on June 8 after his last start on June 7, where he allowed two runs over six innings against the DeNA BayStars in a 2-0 loss. Xu, 25, has posted a 2-3 record in six starts this season.

Replacing Xu on the mound will be left-handed pitcher Nakamura Toshiya, who was acquired from the Chiba Lotte Marines in the active player draft last offseason. Nakamura, who last started a game on June 19, 2021, for Lotte against the Seibu Lions, will be making his first start in five years. He was informed of the assignment just before boarding a flight from Shin-Chitose Airport back to Fukuoka on June 22. "I'm nervous," Nakamura admitted. "It's been five years, and even though I've been starting in the minors, I think the first team is different. But this is a chance, so I really want to do my best."

Nakamura has been effective in the minor leagues this season, appearing in nine games (four starts) with a 2-2 record and a 2.02 ERA. Managerial staff expressed confidence in his ability to handle a starter's workload, with Coach Kurano noting, "He was starting in the farm system, so he has the skills to pitch deep into the game. We're not considering a bullpen day." The Hawks are set to face the Orix Buffaloes at Mizuho PayPay Dome on June 24.

The Hawks are also monitoring other roster moves, including the potential return of catcher Yamamoto Yuta from rehab, as the team continues to adjust its lineup amid the ongoing season.