There is excitement in Hiroshima where the Carp are off to a nice start in the Central League pennant race.

Manager Kenjiro Nomura has the red-helmeted ones in first place in the flag chase, and it appears to be no fluke.

Watching Hiroshima play, you can see there is talent in all facets of the game. The lineup is strong, there is speed and power, the defense has improved, and the pitching staff is solid with five quality starters, excellent middle relievers and set-up men and a quality closer in American Kam Mickolio.