Takahiro Norimoto didn't allow a single earned run in eight innings against the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, striking out eight in the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles' 5-1 interleague victory Tuesday.
Norimoto improved to 6-3, moving into a tie for the Pacific League lead in wins after scattering six hits in a no-walk outing.
Swallows slugger Kazuhiro Hatakeyama, who struck out twice in four at-bats, said there are few pitchers in the Central League who can match Norimoto.