OSAKA (Kyodo) Baseball commentator Akinobu Mayumi took center stage on Monday as he was officially introduced in a two-year deal as the new Hanshin Tigers manager.
Mayumi, a former Tigers infielder, said he is excited to be back in a Hanshin uniform and leading the Central League club despite his lack of experience in a managerial post.
"It feels great to be back with the Tigers. I have no experience and I know that I face a tough challenge ahead but I intend to give it everything," said Mayumi. "I want to make an earnest effort from my first year."
The 55-year-old Mayumi replaces Akinobu Okada at the helm following the latter's decision to step down as skipper after failing to clinch the league title this season.
"Defensive baseball is our game. The team that has solid defense has a shot at becoming Japan Series champion," Mayumi said.