Gu Lin Ruei-yang Starts in NPB Minor League, 8 Ks in 5.2 Innings

Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters pitcher Gu Lin Ruei-yang started in a minor league game against the Orix Buffaloes today. He pitched 5.2 innings, struck out 8, allowed 1 run, and recorded a top speed of 153 km/h. The Fighters eventually lost 2-3, and Gu Lin did not factor into the decision. Gu Lin started strong, retiring the first four batters. In the bottom of the 2nd, he allowed a walk but induced a double play. In the bottom of the 3rd, despite giving up a hit, he struck out three batters in the inning and kept the score at zero. In the bottom of the 4th, he faced a bases-loaded crisis but managed to get a flyout to center field, escaping without allowing a run. He retired the side in order in the 5th. In the bottom of the 6th, he walked the leadoff hitter, struck out two, and was pulled after giving up an infield hit. Orix then successfully stole home, which was charged as a run against Gu Lin. The Fighters led 2-1 after 8 innings, but Orix tied the game in the bottom of the 9th and won on a walk-off hit. Gu Lin threw 100 pitches in total, allowing 3 hits, 8 strikeouts, 4 walks, and 1 earned run. His ERA after the game is 6.05.