Yusei Kikuchi (5-6) worked 6⅔ scoreless innings to help the Seibu Lions snap their franchise-worst 13 game losing streak with a 6-1 win over the Tohoku Rakuten Eagles.
Kikuchi, a native of the Tohoku region, allowed five hits and two walks, while striking out five at Sendai's Kobo Miyagi Stadium.
"It's been such a long time," said the lefty, who grew up in neighboring Iwate Prefecture. "Not being able to win is really frustrating. This is such a relief.