In a Japanese baseball season full of shocks and surprises, the Chunichi Dragons have emerged as unexpected leaders in the Central League heading into the break for what could be the final All-Star series between the Central and Pacific leagues.
With only a few additions to last year's core roster, the Dragons have outperformed the favored Yomiuri Giants to prove that seeking remedy from within can pay off with different mind sets -- and a new manager.
The Giants once again spent billions of yen on an off-season shopping spree to create a potent lineup laden with sluggers, but are sweating to stay over .500 in the league standings half way through the season.