Two weekends ago, when the 2021 season began, Hanshin Tigers fans across the globe were elated when the team left the Tokyo region with three straight wins. They were facing the defending cellar-dwellers at that time. This time, they faced the current basement residents in the Yokohama DeNA Baystars. Different team, same result: one tight…
After the first two games of this series went to the team that did not deserve them (in my opinion… Friday’s Dragons committed 4 errors and still pulled off a win, while Hanshin’s lone hit that left the infield was its last one on Saturday), this one actually played out quite calmly. Very little drama,…
There are a few very important bits of news that need your attention and awareness: The State of Emergency is expected to be called off on March 21, and soon thereafter, the foreign players who have not yet arrived in Japan will be permitted entry into the country. There will be strict regulations that limit…
Normally, these reports are only available to those who have joined the Patreon family (which you are always welcome to do if you have not already). This offseason, though, they are available for the masses. The patrons already got a look at some advanced stats on the hitters just over a month ago. Here’s a…
Source: Hanshin Tigers Official The Hanshin Tigers announced on Monday that they are bringing back outfielder Jerry Sands, pitchers Jon Edwards and Joe Gunkel, plus infielder Jefry Marte, for the 2021 season. Yet to be announced, but assumed to be done deals are contracts with 2020 closer Robert Suarez, KBO MVP Mel Rojas Jr, KBO…
Daily Sports Column (Japanese) here / トレバーの虎場（デイリースポーツ）から I can still remember July 1998 like it was yesterday. I wouldn’t call myself traumatized by what happened. Just shell-shocked. I had just come to Okinawa, Japan, and the town Board of Education threw me a welcome party. There I was, sitting at a table with a bunch…
Tora (虎) = Tiger Kichi (キチ) = short for kichigai (気違い) = lunatic We are… Episode 008: Gaijin (Un-)Employment Center Hard to believe the season is coming to an end here real quick… and yet, given that it’s already past the midway point of October, it’s a wonder (and a joy) to be able to…
Read the Japanese Version in Daily Sports The offseason is almost over! We can watch baseball again, Tigers fans! And for those who missed it, the team signed four new American players to the roster: infielder Justin Bour (Angels), outfielder Jerry Sands (KBO Kiwoom Heroes), and pitchers Joe Gunkel (Marlins) and Jon Edwards (Indians). They…
Sources: Nikkan Sports / Hochi Message from the translator: Keep in mind that these are not the exact words spoken by the guys. The press conference is not viewable by the public, so this is a translation of the Japanese translation of their words. New Hanshin import pitchers Jon Edwards (32, Indians) and Joe Gunkel…
The Hanshin Tigers announced on the 15th that they have signed right-handed pitcher Joe Gunkel (27) to a contract for next season. A Florida native, Gunkel has never made it up to the majors, but has a 45-39 record with 12 saves in 172 combined minor league games…