Cuban left-handed pitcher Liván Moinelo clinched his second victory of the 2026 season in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) on Tuesday, delivering a stellar performance that underscores his return to elite form after months on the sidelines due to injury.
According to reports from Pelota Cubana on social media, the Pinar del Río native was the winning pitcher in the SoftBank Hawks' 7-1 triumph over the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. His outing left little doubt about his physical and competitive readiness.
Moinelo pitched six innings, surrendering just two hits, issuing one walk, and striking out seven batters.
The only run he allowed came via a home run from Dominican slugger Franmil Reyes, one of the most formidable hitters in the Pacific League, who has amassed 26 home runs this season.
The lefty threw 98 pitches to complete his effort, generating 19 swings and misses, a testament to his dominance over the opposing lineup.
With this performance, Moinelo boasts a 2-0 record in his two appearances since rejoining SoftBank's main squad in mid-August, both featuring quality starts.
Overall, the Cuban has logged 12 innings, given up six hits, allowed only one earned run, and struck out 12, maintaining an impressive 0.75 ERA.
His comeback is particularly significant considering Moinelo spent nearly three months away from top-tier Japanese baseball due to a left shoulder injury reported in mid-May.
Before rejoining the main team, the Pinar del Río pitcher completed two rehabilitation starts in the minor leagues on July 23 and July 31, after which SoftBank confirmed his readiness to return.
His 2026 season debut was on August 12, delivering six scoreless innings in a 16-2 victory over the Chiba Lotte Marines, and he has now followed up with another equally strong performance.
The context amplifies the impressive start: Moinelo emerged from a historic 2025 season, finishing with a 12-3 record, a 1.46 ERA, and 172 strikeouts over 167 innings, achievements that earned him the Pacific League MVP award, making him the first Cuban to receive such an honor, as well as the Japan Series 2025 with SoftBank.
"In just two starts, he's demonstrated the level that made him one of SoftBank's standout figures," noted the source covering the game.
Liván Moinelo's Comeback and Performance in the NPB
How did Liván Moinelo perform in his recent game in Japan?
Liván Moinelo pitched six innings, allowing only two hits and one walk while striking out seven batters, securing a 7-1 victory for the SoftBank Hawks.
What was significant about Moinelo's comeback?
Moinelo's comeback is notable as he returned to form after a shoulder injury that kept him away from top-tier play for nearly three months. His performances have been stellar since his return.
What achievements did Moinelo have in the 2025 season?
In the 2025 season, Moinelo finished with a 12-3 record, a 1.46 ERA, and 172 strikeouts in 167 innings, earning him the Pacific League MVP and a Japan Series victory with SoftBank.