Source: Tigers Official
On January 28, 28-year-old outfielder Sheldon Neuse had his introductory press conference in Nishinomiya. Here is a partial transcript translated into English from the original.
―How does it feel to be a member of the Tigers?
I’m very excited. I’m happy to be here. It’s a long trip to get here, and I’m ready to get to work here… get to practice a couple of days, see the stadium, then go to Okinawa and get ready for work.
―What were your feelings when you landed in Japan?
I don’t know, I was kind of in shock, kind of in awe as I took in the sights. But now that I’m here, and got to see the clubhouse and see the other guys, it’s exciting.
―What were your impressions of the field?
It’s really pretty. Very pretty and very clean. A little more chaotic than where I’m from, but it’s very organized. I like it here.
―Have you exchanged words with your new teammates yet?
Not yet, we haven’t been that far yet. I have only met a couple of the foreign guys, but I’m looking forward to meeting some of the guys who are from here and getting to know them.
―What are your impressions of Japanese baseball?
I understand that they’re very hardworking, and it’s important to them, and it’s their job. I’m excited for that. I’m ready to go about business the right way, and treat it as such.
―What impressions do you have of the Hanshin Tigers?
What I was told is that it is similar to the Dodgers of MLB. You know, a lot of fans and a lot of support, and a really good baseball team. I’m hoping I can come in and fit in and find a way to help the team win.
―What are your strengths as a player?
I’m hoping I can come in and hit, be able to drive the ball and score some runs, and then play good defense behind our pitching staff.
―What are you hoping to provide the team as far as defense goes?
I’ve played a little bit of left but I’m looking forward to putting in a lot of work in spring training to get comfortable out there and to get better at it.
―What position would you say is your best?
Batter (laughs). I played a lot at second and third, but I’m pretty comfortable anywhere.
―Do you have any goals in terms of numbers are you hoping to put up?
No, just help the team win. Just try to get as many wins as we can.
―How did you spend the offseason?
Just working on being more consistent at the plate, staying healthy, and everything else, but the biggest thing is getting consistent, keeping things simpler at the plate, so I can go out and get better results more often.
―Do you have any favorite Japanese foods or interests in Japanese culture?
Wagyu steak. But all of it, really… I’m looking forward to trying everything. But my wife is going to enjoy it more than I will.
―Anything you want to be called by the fans?
Whatever they want. No preference. Whatever.
―Give a message to the fans, please.
Hopefully, we can win some games and put on a good show this year. I’m hoping I can help fans enjoy coming out to the ballpark every night and I can go out there and play and put on a good show for them, give them something to watch and look forward to.