The Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks announced on December 18 that they have signed manager Hiroki Kokubo to a new three-year contract through the 2028 season. Kokubo took charge last year and led the team to a Pacific League title in his first season. In his second year, the Hawks struggled early amid injuries to key players but rebounded by promoting younger talent. The team went on to win a second straight league championship and captured the Japan Series for the first time in five years. Source: Fukuoka Softbank HAWKS

Photo: Fukuoka Now
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