At the heart of all things is love.

No one can stop a home run. No one can understand what it really is, unless you have felt it in your own hands and body. As the ball makes its high, long arc beyond the playing field, the diamond and the stands suddenly belong to one man. In that brief, brief time, you are free of all demands and complications.

Above all, what I learned from my Sensei was how to wait. I believe I learned the meaning of waiting on one foot. If I understand anything in this life, it is how to wait. It is not an answer. But for me it is everything.

I am proud that Japan is the strongest team in Asia. We are determined to go through at the top.

Before speaking about whether to turn it down or not, I don't think I've got an official offer.

I had confidence I could use him. I didn't have any doubt.

In the future, I hope to have this Classic as the football World Cup, something many more countries can join.

I have no intention of resigning. I wouldn't mind dying at a ballpark. I would like to aim high for the team next year.

I never coached a team for a tournament like this, and never thought the pressure to be so high. Baseball is the best sport. Everyone has to work together. There is nothing more wonderful than that Japanese players did such a wonderful job and showed that to everyone in the world.

I'm 100 percent sure. I spoke to him recently and told him we really want him to be a part of our team.