Chunichi vs Yokohama Baystars Prediction 25 July 2026
📡 Chunichi clinched the first game of the series with a 3-2 victory, narrowing the gap in their season head-to-head. The hosts secured their third consecutive win against DeNA, each time clinching the game by just one run. For the second matchup, Chunichi are sending Hideaki Wakui to the mound, who has started the season with two wins and an ERA of 2.73. DeNA will debut Osvaldo Bido in their main lineup for the first time.
Head-to-Head
📊 DeNA lead the season series with 8 wins, 6 losses, and one draw. The visitors have scored 49 runs compared to Chunichi's 39, boast a better batting average of .236 against .202, and hold an edge in team ERA: 2.24 to 3.27. However, Chunichi have claimed the last three head-to-head matchups with scores of (3-2), (4-3), and (4-3). This recent stretch indicates that the hosts have learned how to keep DeNA in check during tight finishes.
Head-to-head statistics Chunichi - Yokohama Baystars

Chunichi Dragons Team Overview
Chunichi currently hold the sixth spot with a record of 37-54-1. The team have won two of their last three games and showed resilience in the crucial part of Friday's matchup. Wakui offers the hosts a reliable starting foundation, and the enclosed Vantelin Dome eliminates the impact of heat, wind, and precipitation. While Chunichi trail DeNA in overall season scoring, they have made up for it in recent head-to-head encounters with more precise execution in key moments.
Match Results: Chunichi Dragons

Yokohama Dena Baystars Team Overview
DeNA sit fourth with a record of 38-49-3, having lost four consecutive games. In the first game, they took a 2-0 lead but failed to capitalize, once again falling short in the late innings. Bido lacks first-team stats for this season, leaving the duration of his appearance uncertain. The visitors will need a more dependable performance from their relievers, who have consistently squandered narrow leads in recent outings.
Match Results: Yokohama Dena Baystars
⚾ Starting Pitchers
Hideaki Wakui will take the mound for Chunichi. The right-hander has appeared in 5 games, boasting a 2-0 record with a 2.73 ERA. His stats include 29.2 IP / 36 H / 20 K / 9 R. In his last three starts, Wakui has allowed just one run in each outing and has pitched at least six innings every time. While he gives up a fair number of hits, he effectively limits their impact on the scoreboard.
Osvaldo Bido is set to start for DeNA. The right-hander has yet to play in the NPB's top tier this season, so there are no official stats available. His recent appearances have been at a lower level, typically in short stints. DeNA might turn to their bullpen early if Bido struggles to adjust quickly to the major league level.
⭐ Editorial Prediction
DeNA have the upper hand in the season's head-to-head record and have scored ten more runs overall, giving them an edge. However, the current form tells a different story: Chunichi have won three consecutive games, proving more reliable in the late stages. Wakui is in great form, remaining unbeaten this season and allowing only three runs in his last three starts. Bido lacks first-team stats, and an early move to the relievers could pose a significant risk for DeNA following four straight losses. The closed dome favors the hosts, allowing them to focus on pitching control without external factors. With the score even, Chunichi gain the advantage through current confidence and home field. Our pick for the match is a Chunichi victory.