The Fukuoka Softbank Hawks unveiled new manager Kimiyasu Kudo Saturday after signing the former pitcher to a three-year contract.

Kudo, 51, promised to do his utmost to continue leading the team at the same high level after the Pacific League champions won their sixth Japan Series title.

"With a team that is No. 1 in Japan, it will be very difficult to continue at the same level and strength," Kudo said at a news conference in Fukuoka. "This is the job I take on. I want to firmly resolve to always preserve an everlasting, strong team."