Not too long ago, Yomiuri Giants pitcher Wirfin Obispo was what is known in Japanese baseball as a "triple-digit" (developmental) player.
Having shed that label, the Giants' surprise star helped move the Kyojin's quest for another Central League title into single digits.
Alex Ramirez and Yoshitomo Tani homered, while Obispo's night was highlighted by a four-strikeout sixth inning as the Giants beat the Hanshin Tigers 4-2 in front of 40,921 fans at Tokyo Dome.