New Yomiuri Giants manager Yoshinobu Takahashi was all smiles at the Dome Kickoff party last week. He was introduced to a loud ovation, took part in a light-hearted talk show and got a kick out of seeing his batting form imitated by a couple of former NPB players. Current Giants star Shinnosuke Abe, currently training in Guam, even got in on the action, punctuating a video message with his own exaggerated take on Takahashi's batting style.
Abe ended his video by bowing and saying "sumimasen." Because even in jest, Takahashi isn't just one of the guys anymore. He's the man in charge now.
Takahashi can have his fun now, but the pressure is only going to grow until the Giants break camp in February. The spotlight won't abate until the end of the season — and then only if the Giants deliver an acceptable performance.