Yokohama BayStars manager Akihiko Oya said Tuesday he will continue at the helm next season despite the team's dismal performance this year.
Oya, 60, will enter the final year of a three-year contract with the Central League club in 2009.
"I like this team and I have determined to make it strong no matter what, so I decided to stay on," Oya said.
The BayStars, who have been trailing in last place since immediately after the start of the season, have struggled with injuries to their pitching staff and a lack of foreign talent.
Although there had been some maneuverings in the front office to hire a new manager, Yokohama club president Kuniaki Sasaki requested that Oya continue next season after seeing a surge in young talent early last month.
"I have become even more determined to do everything possible to improve next season," Oya said, adding that he will reveal player and coaching staff changes that he has discussed with Sasaki after the season ends.