Free Agents and Golden Gloves

Fujimoto has reached his free agency stage. He met with Tigers officials who were indifferent and he is likely to try the market. Swallows are reportedly interested in him. There was talk that Tigers would be interested in Fujii of Nippon Ham who has just declared free agency but this is based on his good performance in the Japan series. His regular season was undistinguished and Tigers are currently cool on any move. No news on Fukuhara yet though there are elements who want to dispose of him and he is due free agency. Sakai-owner confirmed that Tigers are no longer interested in Matsui given his declared desire to stay in MLB. G G Sato is apparently very interested in moving to Tigers and maybe a trade can be arranged.
Mayumi was disappointed that Tigers didn't pick up any Golden Gloves this season but given their general performance one has difficulty understanding his feelings with one exception. This was Toritani who should have recieved the shortstop award instead of the inferior Ibata. Toritani was quite brilliant once again and is clearly the best shortstop in Japan. Ibata isn't anywhere near as good.

Fujimoto and Yakult have basically agreed terms and it is all down to the final contract being signed. An appraisal will follow. Fujikawa has been told again that he will not be posted and will have to wait until he obtains free agency to go to MLB. However, Sakai-owner did leave the door open in that this decision could be reconsidered. Tigers have every intention of retaining Hiyama as a pinch hitter given his still enormous popularity among the fans.

Best of luck to Fujimoto. I prefer him over Hirano myself but. Hope he does get lots of playing time for the Birds in Jingu. Hanshin could need more starters and also some boost in the line up with someone like GG but not sure who Hanshin would be willing to give. What does Hanshin have in mind?

In my opinion though Toritani is a better short stop. In terms of defense only I would say Ibata I also do think Sakamoto and Nakajima to be terrific short stops too.

Versatility - Hirano can play outfield and infield while Fujimoto is just an infielder. Hirano is also a good top of the order player as well as a lower order player and will hit more extra base hits. Fujimoto apart from 2003 has always been a bit of a lightweight hitter.
I would disagree about Ibata's defence though. Toritani has improved immeasurably and has the edge on the Dragons shortstop in that area.