This is a site about Pro Yakyu (Japanese Baseball), not about who the next player to go over to MLB is. It's a community of Pro Yakyu fans who have come together to share their knowledge and opinions with the world. It's a place to follow teams and individuals playing baseball in Japan (and Asia), and to learn about Japanese (and Asian) culture through baseball.
It is my sincere hope that once you learn a bit about what we're about here that you will join the community of contributors.
Michael Westbay
(aka westbaystars)
Founder
Okada is taking over as manager from next year. Okada was part of the 1985 team that won the Japan Series as a second baseman, has managed the Tigers' farm team, and served as first base coach (I think) this season.
This is too bad. Hoshino, like Dusty Baker in Chicago, really changed the attitude of the Tigers from perennial losers to competitive players. I've second guessed many of his on-field decisions, but it's hard to argue with a guy who turned the Tigers around so incredibly. Hope Okada learned a thing or two from him.