sentences:  In 2006 against the Hanshin Tigers, he left the game with a 2–1 lead after pitching 8 innings, but failed to get the win when closer Katsuhiro Nagakawa let up a tying home run with two outs in the 9th inning.He was also recognized as a "Giants Killer", as he seemed to pitch exceptionally well against the Yomiuri Giants.Kuroda obtained free agency on May 31, 2006, and announced that he was willing to hear offers from other teams.