Chiba Lotte Marines vs Yakult Swallows prediction for Jun 4, 2026, featuring Kazuya Kojima vs Yasuhiro Ogawa, matchup data, and one final pick.
Away Starter
Kazuya Kojima
Home Starter
Yasuhiro Ogawa
Chiba Lotte Marines vs Yakult Swallows prediction
Get ready for an exciting NPB clash on June 4, 2026, as the Chiba Lotte Marines visit the Yakult Swallows at Jingu. This **Chiba Lotte Marines vs Yakult Swallows prediction** features a pitching duel between the Marines’ Kazuya Kojima and the Swallows’ Yasuhiro Ogawa, both looking to make a significant impact on their team’s season.
Starting pitching matchup
On the mound for the Chiba Lotte Marines is Kazuya Kojima, who comes into this game with a 3.07 ERA and a 1-4 record. His FIP stands at 4.10, suggesting his underlying performance might be slightly less effective than his ERA. Kojima’s strikeout rate is 5.22 K/9, with a walk rate of 3.07 BB/9 and an impressive home run rate of 0.61 HR/9.
Opposing him for the Yakult Swallows is Yasuhiro Ogawa. Ogawa has struggled more this season, holding an ERA of 4.91 and a 1-3 record. His FIP is considerably higher at 5.48, indicating potential for more regression. He posts a slightly higher K/9 at 5.73, but also a higher walk rate of 4.09 BB/9 and a significantly higher home run rate of 1.36 HR/9 compared to Kojima.
Based purely on these numbers, Kazuya Kojima appears to have the statistical edge, demonstrating better control over earned runs, a lower FIP, and a much better ability to keep the ball in the park.
Game flow
Given the pitching matchup, this game could lean towards the Marines if Kojima performs to his underlying metrics. Ogawa’s higher ERA, FIP, and particularly his HR/9 suggest he could be vulnerable to the long ball, which the Marines’ lineup might exploit. The Swallows’ offense will need to work hard against Kojima, who generally limits home runs, though his moderate K/9 means balls will be put in play. Walks could be a factor for both pitchers, but Ogawa’s higher BB/9 could lead to more traffic on the bases for the Marines.
Best bet
Considering the statistical advantage on the mound, especially in terms of ERA, FIP, and home run prevention, Kazuya Kojima provides the Chiba Lotte Marines with a better chance to control the game. Yasuhiro Ogawa’s struggles with walks and home runs make him a riskier option, potentially leading to a higher-scoring outing for the Swallows’ opponent. Our **Chiba Lotte Marines vs Yakult Swallows prediction** hinges on the Marines’ starter outdueling his counterpart.
👉 Final Pick: Chiba Lotte Marines Moneyline
Matchup snapshot
- Away Team: Chiba Lotte Marines
- Home Team: Yakult Swallows
- Away Starter: Kazuya Kojima
- Home Starter: Yasuhiro Ogawa
- Venue: 神 宮
- First Pitch: 18:00
- Away Stats: ERA 3.07 (1-4), FIP 4.10, K/9 5.22, BB/9 3.07, HR/9 0.61
- Home Stats: ERA 4.91 (1-3), FIP 5.48, K/9 5.73, BB/9 4.09, HR/9 1.36
More matchup info
For official probable starter information, visit the NPB probable starters page.