Sat Jun 21 05:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Tigers Tap Takatera at Third, Ohtake Eyes Victory Against Former Team

**Koshien Stadium, Japan -** The Hanshin Tigers are looking to break their jinx against the SoftBank Hawks, who have dominated them in interleague play since 2012, as they face off at Koshien Stadium today.

Manager Okada has shaken up the lineup, giving infielder Takatera Nozomu, 22, his first start in interleague play at third base, batting eighth. This is Takatera’s first start at third in his professional career. He last started a game on May 24th against the Chunichi Dragons.

On the mound for the Tigers is Kotaro Ohtake, 29, who is aiming for his first victory against his former team, the SoftBank Hawks. A win today would give Ohtake victories against all 12 NPB teams. Victory here would also mark a significant milestone, as it would be only his 36th career win, the third fewest among pitchers reaching that achievement.

Here is the Tigers’ starting lineup:

1. Center Fielder: Chika Motoyoshi
2. Second Baseman: Takumu Nakano
3. Left Fielder: Teruaki Sato
4. Right Fielder: Koji Chikamoto
5. First Baseman: Yusuke Oyama
6. Shortstop: Kento Obata
7. Catcher: Ukyo Sakamoto
8. Third Baseman: Takatera Nozomu
9. Pitcher: Kotaro Ohtake

The Tigers are hoping that this lineup will finally give them the edge they need to overcome the Hawks and improve their interleague record.

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