Rakuten Eagles announced on the 10th that manager Hajime Miki will be taking a leave of absence. The decision to take a leave of absence was made after discussions between the manager and the team, and head coach Tatsuya Shiokawa will take over as acting manager from the game against The Giants on June 10th.

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Shiokawa joined Rakuten Eagles in 2004 as the fifth pick in Rakuten Eagles team's first ever draft, coming from Tohoku Fukushi University. He played in a total of 263 games, recording a batting average of .199, 1 Home Run, and 13 RBI. He has contributed to the team as a utility player.

After retiring, he served as an academy coach, and from 2018 he has held coaching positions for both the first and second teams. Last season, he served as the first team's infield defense base running coach.

He took on the role of head coach this season. He has supported the team by utilizing his passionate coaching and communication skills. During regular practices, he often visited not only fielder' practice but also pitcher' practice. Having been involved with the team for many years, his deep understanding of the players' personalities and characteristics is a great asset. He will work with the acting manager to turn things around.

◆Tatsuya Shiokawa: Born March 15, 1983, in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Age 43. Graduated from Kobe Kokusai University High School and Tohoku Fukushi University. Joined Rakuten Eagles in 2004 as the 5th pick in the draft. Played in a total of 263 games, with a batting average of .199, 1 Home Run, 13 RBI, and 16 stolen base. Retired from playing in 2011. Since 2018, has served as a coach for both the first and second teams. Last season, he served as the first team's infield defense base running coach, and this season he has been the head coach.