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Slipping new, livlier balls into the game?
"TOKYO (AP) -- The Japanese baseball commissioner apologized on Friday for the confusion caused by introducing a new, livelier ball this season without notifying players.
Nippon Professional Baseball commissioner Ryozo Kato held a meeting with representatives of the 12 teams and issued an apology for his handling of the situation.
"I've caused a lot of trouble for the fans, players and people connected to the game," Kato said. "Baseball is very important in Japan's sporting culture and I have to carefully reflect on my responsibility to the game."
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"Kato is said to be awaiting the next splintering of a maple bat by one of the lively balls, at which time he will use one of the splinters to commit seppuku."