Quite a controversy brewing over the proposed relocation of the Nippon Ham Fighters from Tokyo to Sapporo for the 2004 season. The Pacific League club wants to shift its franchise base from the Tokyo Dome to the Sapporo Dome, but the Seibu Lions are trying to block the move, because that team wants to establish Sapporo as a "sub-franchise" and play 20 of its 70 home games in Hokkaido's largest city.
The Seibu ownership and management has said Sapporo has a history and culture of being a place where all 12 Japanese pro teams can go to play some games, and there should not be a full-time franchise team based there. So, what to do? I believe it is time for the Fighters to move, Seibu should cooperate, and I will make a specific suggestion as to what should be done to decide the matter later in the column.
As one who has been close to the Nippon Ham team for the past 23 years, I am aware the ownership and management of the club is a first-class operation. The personnel involved are experienced professionals who have tried all sorts of promotions and gimmicks to draw the fans.