The Yomiuri Giants have named former star Hideki Matsui as their new manager. His number will be 90, rather than the No. 55 he wore as a player. Here’s why Matsui chose No. 90 and how fans reacted to the announcement on X.
【What Was Announced】Matsui Takes Over as Giants Manager
The Giants announced on October 23, 2026, that Matsui would become the team’s new manager on a three-year contract. He is scheduled to begin leading the team’s autumn training on October 30 as the club prepares for the 2027 season.
Matsui will wear a Giants uniform again for the first time in 24 years, since leaving for Major League Baseball after the 2002 season.
【Matsui’s Explanation】Why He Chose No. 90
Matsui’s managerial number will be 90. It was the number worn by his mentor, Shigeo Nagashima, when Nagashima first became the Giants’ manager. Matsui said he wanted to carry on Nagashima’s passion.
Nagashima would have turned 90 in 2026, which was also one of the reasons Matsui chose the number.
Matsui also explained why he did not choose his playing number, 55. He felt that wearing No. 55 might lead him and fans who remember those days to dwell on the past. He chose a different number to mark a fresh start as a manager.
There is another connection: Matsui’s Giants number, 55, plus the No. 35 he wore at the end of his career in the United States adds up to 90.
【Fan Reactions on X】Excitement, Welcome and Some Concerns
After Matsui’s appointment was announced, fans posted messages welcoming him back to the Giants and sharing their hopes for the new manager. Many were also moved by his decision to wear No. 90, a number associated with Nagashima.
One report analyzing 100 X comments related to the announcement found that 45% expressed anticipation or welcome, 25% expressed concern, and 15% expressed surprise. Alongside the positive reactions, the report also noted concerns about Matsui’s untested managerial experience.
What kind of team will Matsui build? What approach will he take in the dugout? Fans will be watching closely.
From No. 55 to No. 90
As a player, Matsui wore No. 55 and became one of the Giants’ leading hitters. Now he will wear No. 90 and lead the team as manager.
The number honors Nagashima and represents a new beginning. Fans will be watching to see how the Giants perform under Matsui in the 2027 season.
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