Stove League of Dragons for 2023 season #2
The 2022 season is over.
The Dragons finished in last place again in 2022, once more unable to break free from the team’s struggles.
While their pitching staff is often said to be relatively strong, their lack of scoring power remains a major burden.
This year, the Dragons are seriously trying to change the team.
The trades involving Toshiki Abe and Youta Kyoda also made big news.
Additionally, among the players cut from the team was Mitsumata who wasn’t a regular starter but still delivered results.
Isn’t this decision a strong statement from Manager Tatsunami that relying on them would prevent the team from rejuvenating ?
However, the absolute reinforcement priority is acquiring players who can hit home runs even at the Vantelin Dome.
The Dragons have one of the league’s top leadoff and second hitters, and with the cleanup hitters functioning well around the power hitter, the team’s situation will change dramatically.
The news has come in that the Dragons have acquired new foreign players, outfielder Zoilo Almonte and infielder Orlando Calixte. Both players have hit over .300 with double-digit home runs in the Mexican League.
However, I felt that neither foreign player could become the long-distance hitter that the team truly needs.
Outfielder Aristides Aquino signed with the Dragons ! ! !
Big news just came in.
He’s a genuine long-range power hitter who rivals the likes of Tyrone Woods and Tony Blanco.
However, regarding foreign players, their performance in previous leagues isn’t always reliable.
I believe that their ability to adapt and adjust is key to succeeding in Japan. The player’s mindset is also important.
What can be said is that the Dragons absolutely wanted a long-range hitter like him.
If there’s a concern, you all know that outfielder Aristides Aquino is also a high strikeout hitter.
Japanese professional baseball has many pitchers with excellent control, so hopefully this won’t become a double-edged sword…
Furthermore, he has a strong arm. The Dragons place a high priority on defense in the spacious Bantelin Dome, and he is undoubtedly one of their best players.
(But sorry, I’m still not sure about his defensive skills.)
Next year, he might struggle at the start of the season, but I’d like to watch him for a while.
Reference: Dragons News by Chunichi Dragons (2023/01/25)
(In Japanese) Announcement of New Foreign Player Signing
https://dragons.jp/news/2022/22112202.php
(In Japanese) Announcement of New Foreign Player Signing
https://dragons.jp/news/2022/22112801.php
Thanks.