So Taguchi is the subject of a Philadelphia Weekly cover story which focuses on the Japanese baseball traditions and So's unassuming demeanor. Perhaps the best nugget to come out of the article was about Charlie Manuel.
In six seasons Manuel won three league pennants, a Japan Series championship and the 1979 Pacific League MVP award. He clubbed a league-leading 48 home runs in 1980.
“He was like Mickey Mantle to us, believe it or not,” says Nagao, the Kyodo News writer.
Good old Charlie was like the Mick. Amazing.
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The article makes So out to be a heck of a guy who just can't really get onto the field this season. With so few at bats, it's no wonder he struggles.
“I don’t get a lot of at-bats,” Taguchi says. “I have to keep my feelings fresh. Everyday players have to adjust from at-bat to at-bat. I have to adjust during each at-bat, from pitch to pitch. It’s a new challenge.”
It goes on to tell how Taguchi had to wait at security for 15 minutes at Jimmy Rollins charity bowling tournament because nobody recognized him. He also has two Chihuahuas.
>>So Taguchi Has Lost His Wa [Philadelphia Weekly]