Leandro Cedeno hit a tiebreaking solo home run in the top of the 10th inning as the Orix Buffaloes edged the SoftBank Hawks 2-1 on Sunday.
The Hawks have lost eight straight games and fallen 4-1/2 games behind the Pacific League-leading Buffaloes, who are looking for their third consecutive league title.
Cedeno sent a 2-2 pitch from Yuki Matsumoto (0-2) over the left-field wall at PayPay Dome for his fourth homer of the season.
"I tried to make good contact," the Venezuelan designated hitter said. "I wasn't sure if I hit it out. When I saw the ball go out, I got excited."
Asked to comment on his strong performance at the plate in July, Cedeno said, "In my whole career, I've been having a good July. I enjoy this month."
Cedeno hit his first grand slam in Japan on Tuesday against the Lotte Marines.
Shota Abe (1-2) won in relief, and Yoshihisa Hirano picked up his 15th save. Orix starter Hiroya Miyagi and SoftBank counterpart Nao Higashihama allowed one run each early in the game before lasting eight innings.
