This article is part of our Dream11 Fantasy NPB series.
Hanshin Tigers (32-31-3) at Yokohama DeNA BayStars (33-31-4)
Tuesday, September 8th, 4:45 AM EDT
Projected Starters
BayStars: LHP Yuya Sakamoto (1-0, 0.00 ERA)
Tigers: LHP Onelki Garcia (2-5, 3.53 ERA)
Game Preview
The BayStars have always been in contention for the top spot in the Central League standings and, even though they are 8.0 games behind the league-leading Yomiuri Giants, they still look quite a lock to make the NPB playoffs. The Tigers, on the other hand, have been one of the biggest surprises in the league this season. They endured a slow start, but they have bounced back and now they're just 0.5 games behind the BayStars for second place in the standings. The pitching matchup for this duel might have the edge to the BayStars when looking at the stats from both hurlers, but it's worth noting Sakamoto has pitched just six innings this season – albeit he allowed just one hit on route to a scoreless outing and a win.
Injuries
Tyler Austin - Out - Concussion
8/13 2:20 AM IST - Austin revealed that he suffered a concussion after colliding with an outfield wall in a July 31 game, Jim Allen of JBallAllen.com reports. The BayStars deactivated Austin on Aug. 5 with a neck injury, but receiving clearance from the concussion may be a greater concern at this point. Austin is eligible to rejoin the BayStars' roster Saturday, but manager Alex Ramirez said he doesn't think the 28-year-old will be ready to go by that point.
