The Tokyo Yakult Swallows host the Hanshin Tigers at Jingu Stadium on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, in a Central League clash. First pitch is set for 18:00 JST.
Yakult will send right-hander Koshiro Yoshimura to the mound. In his last start against the Yomiuri Giants, Yoshimura allowed just two hits over eight innings but was undone by a home run, taking the loss. He will look to bounce back and earn his third win of the season by keeping the Tigers’ lineup in check.
The Tigers counter with veteran righty Yuki Nishi. Nishi earned a win against Yakult on April 30, tossing five innings of four-hit ball while striking out two. He has been solid this season with a 3.60 ERA over his one start.
The Tigers’ offense will be anchored by catcher Fumihiko Fushimi, who celebrated his 36th birthday on game day. In the previous matchup against Yakult on April 30, Fushimi played a key role, driving in two runs with timely hits and working well with starter Nishi. He will aim to deliver another big hit to celebrate his special day.
The Swallows enter the game with a 23-14 record, holding first place in the Central League, while the Tigers are close behind at 21-14-1, just one game back. Yakult’s team batting average sits at .221 with 18 runs scored over the last several games, while the Tigers boast a .286 average and 30 runs over the same span.
The season series currently favors the Tigers, who hold a 4-2 advantage over Yakult after winning two of the three games in their previous set at Jingu from April 28-30.
