In 2005, Bobby Valentine became the first American-born manager to lead his team to a Japan Series victory. Now, 11 years later, he’s emerged as the frontrunner to serve as President-elect Donald Trump’s United States Ambassador to Japan.
Now, before you think this is another case of Trump going rogue…appointing the current Sacred Heart University athletic director (and former Major League skipper) actually does make a lot of sense.
According to WEEI, dude is still very popular in Japan, having managed the Chiba Lotte Marines for seven seasons. Valentine is also friendly with current Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Coincidentally, they both attended the University of Southern California.
Also, and probably most important, Valentine has been cozy with both Trump and his brother for decades. He is also very tight with Presidential Transition Team Executive Committee member Anthony Scaramucci.
But here’s the biggie.
With Japan trying to bring baseball back for the 2020 Summer Olympics, having a guy like Valentine in the fold might help. You see, the longtime manager is also friends with SoftBank Hawks owner Masayoshi Son. You might also know Son as the guy who, just the other day, promised to invest $50 billion in America’s technology sector.
Stay tuned.
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