The way things have been going in the world recently, the timing of reviewing this book seems apt. Do you remember Japanese baseball? It really hasn’t been that long since we’ve watched the game, but it sure feels that way. This “time off” has given me an opportunity to read through a book that I…
For the past seven days, it has been in theatres near you (if you live in Japan). And at long last, H-TEN took it in on this day. There were around 30 people in a 200-seat cinema, which I suppose should be expected for a Thursday matinee. Anyhow, let’s get down to business. There are…
Daily Sports Column (Japanese) Here True Hanshin Tigers fans have had their worlds rocked no fewer than four times in the last month*. While baseball is “just a game” and we need not get too uptight or depressed over what happens on the field, we also need to remember that each guy involved with the…
Source: Daily Sports A press conference was held for Randy Messenger to make his retirement official. Here is much of the Q & A. As he approached the podium, he looked at the media and said (in Japanese): OK, sayonara. Good work here today, people! I’m Randy Messenger, #54 for the Hanshin Tigers. This is…
I had no idea that I would get this interested in the Hanshin Tigers until I encountered this legendary pitcher online four years ago. His (our) story is here.
It seems like every year in recent years, another player is putting out memoirs or thoughts about baseball and life with the Hanshin Tigers. Nothing wrong with that, if in fact they have something worth saying. But often times, these guys haven’t truly accomplished anything significant in their careers. This one is different, though. For…
Part 1 of the Interview is Here / Part 2 of the Interview is Here “Me and Bacque are Friends!” Hanshin pitcher Randy Messenger (36) did an interview at his home in Sevierville, Tennessee, and spoke of his surprising connection with former Hanshin pitcher Gene Bacque (80). The legendary righty holds the club’s import record for most…
The original article is here 元の記事はこちら Fate led a Canadian in Ashiya to be swooned by the pinstripes. His name is Trevor Raichura (42) and he is a self-proclaimed Nicholas Cage look-alike university English instructor. (Note: I myself do not think I look like Cage… but Japanese people seem to!) He’s only been a fan…
Some time before the end of the year, I hope to post a top 10 Hanshin Tigers stories of 2016 article… but time is of the essence! In the meantime, here’s a shorter one for you: my personal five top moments as a follower of the team. And… here we go! 5) Going to spring…
Original article can be found here 元の記事はこちら Hanshin announced on the 29th that it has signed Randy Messenger (35) and Marcos Mateo (32) on for next season. Messenger will make an estimated ¥350,000,000 ($3.1 million) per season for two years. Next season will be his eighth with the club, which gives him the longest tenure…