Atsunori Inaba Appointed as Nippon-Ham Fighters First-Team Coach, Begins Instruction at Autumn Camp

Key points

On October 30, 2026, the Nippon-Ham Fighters commenced their autumn camp at Es Con Field Hokkaido. Atsunori Inaba was reassigned from his role as second-team manager to first-team coach and started coaching from the first day of camp. Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo expressed expectations for Inaba to instruct left-handed batters, and Inaba indicated his intention to support the team with a strong desire to win. Additionally, pitcher Hisashi Miyanishi was announced to play next season as a player-coach, embracing a fresh challenge. Attention is focused on the team's future strengthening efforts. [1] [2]

Atsunori Inaba's Appointment as First-Team Coach and Start of Autumn Camp

On October 30, 2026, the Nippon-Ham Fighters began their autumn camp at Es Con Field Hokkaido in Hokkaido. Concurrently, Atsunori Inaba was reassigned from his previous position as second-team manager to first-team coach and has been providing instruction since the first day of camp. Multiple reports covered the first day with photographs. Inaba has been diligently coaching young players, including checking their batting forms. Scenes of Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo and Inaba engaged in discussion were also reported. (Source: 0,4) [1] [5]

The autumn camp is an important period aimed at strengthening the team's capabilities and developing players. Inaba's role as first-team coach is considered significant. The reassignment was made to enhance the team's strength, with expectations placed on Inaba's experience and coaching ability. (Source: 0,4) [1] [5]

Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo's Expectations and Coach Inaba's Instructional Approach

Manager Tsuyoshi Shinjo, who has primarily focused on coaching right-handed batters, expects first-team coach Atsunori Inaba to provide instruction for left-handed batters. He particularly aims to support the technical improvement of left-handed players such as Kotaro Kiyomiya and Yazawa. Shinjo values Inaba's understanding of the sensibilities of left-handed batters. (Source: 0) [1]

Coach Inaba stated that he understands the style of baseball Shinjo wants to play and intends to support the team with a strong desire to win. Drawing on his experience as second-team manager, Inaba is actively coaching first-team players. His instruction plays an important role in strengthening the team's capabilities. (Source: 0,2,3) [1] [3] [4]

Pitcher Hisashi Miyanishi's Role as Player-Coach and New Challenge

Pitcher Hisashi Miyanishi, entering his 20th professional season next year, was announced by the Nippon-Ham Fighters to play while also serving as a coach. This season, he appeared in only eight games, the fewest in his career, and had been prepared for retirement but is now embracing a fresh challenge. Miyanishi expressed his determination to fully commit to both roles. (Source: 1,2) [2] [3]

Although Miyanishi had been prepared to retire after this season's limited appearances, his new role as player-coach marks a fresh start. It is expected that he will leverage his playing experience while also focusing on coaching younger players. (Source: 1,2) [2] [3]