Japan's manager Hirokazu Ibata, right, talks with coaches during their practice session in Tokyo, Wednesday, ahead of their World Baseball Classic games. AP-Yonhap
TOKYO — Japan manager Hirokazu Ibata said he would love for his team to defeat South Korea in their World Baseball Classic (WBC) playing in ways that make the country No. 1 in the world rankings.
"I want to win this game playing the Japanese style of connected baseball," Ibata said at his pregame press conference at the Tokyo Dome, Saturday.
This will be the second game of Pool C for both teams. South Korea beat Czechia 11-4 behind four home runs Thursday, and Japan also flexed its muscle in a 13-0 victory over Chinese Taipei, Friday.
Asked how he would approach the latest installment of South Korea-Japan rivalry, Ibata said, "The scariest thing is a big blow with runners on base."
"We have to do our best not to give up walks or commit errors on defense," the manager added. "As long as we win the game, it will be enough. I hope players will all do their part."
Infielder Shugo Maki also spoke of South Korea's home run prowess.
"Anybody in that lineup can hit a home run," Maki said. "Even though we won last night, this is a brand new game. So we will try not to give up the first run."
Source: Korea Times News
