Hiroshima Carp recruit former Yakult GM Junji Ogawa

The Hiroshima Toyo Carp have announced the recruitment of Junji Ogawa to their organization's management department. Ogawa, a former general manager for the Tokyo Yakult Swallows, played a key role in supporting the Swallows' championship success in 2021.

Club officials stated they expect Ogawa to utilize his extensive professional network to enhance information gathering and negotiations. This move is considered unusual for the Carp, who have traditionally relied on club alumni to compose their management department. The decision aims to revitalize player trades, which the team has not engaged in since July 2019.

Ogawa, 69, has held various high-level positions including scout, farm team manager, and first-team manager. He is expected to begin his new role in January, operating primarily out of the Kanto region to leverage his connections with teams in that area.