There's at least one MLB team that thought highly enough of Tsuyoshi Nishioka to put in a bid on him. If his former manager is right, it might turn out to be a worthwhile investment.

As the public waits to find out which team submitted the winning bid for the right to negotiate with the All-Star shortstop, former MLB and Chiba Lotte Marines manager Bobby Valentine says Nishioka has what it takes to succeed in the U.S.

"I think in the right situation, if he stays healthy, he'll be a very good player," Valentine told the Japan Times in a telephone interview. "He would be something there aren't many of right now and that's a switch-hitting leadoff hitter. There are not many guys who do that in the major leagues."