Samsung Lions Tap Former Rakuten Eagles Manager Toshikai imae as Quality control Coach
The Samsung Lions of the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) have announced the addition of Toshikai imae, former manager of the Rakuten Golden Eagles in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), as their new Quality Control (QC) coach.
imae, who previously served as Rakuten’s manager in 2023 and held coaching positions with the team sence 2020, will join the Lions on a part-time basis.

Imae’s Role and Previous Connection with the Lions
Imae’s contract will see him working with the Lions for 10-15 days each month until the end of September. During his time with the team, he will focus on improving the offensive skills of the Lions’ position players (hitters, fielders, and base runners). He will provide his expertise in hitting, fielding, and base running.
This isn’t Imae’s first experience with the Samsung Lions. He previously visited the team’s spring training camp in Okinawa after the 2024 season, working as a special instructor for two sessions. The positive connection established during that time led to the current agreement.
How will toshikai Imae balance his part-time role with teh Samsung Lions and any other commitments he may have?
Samsung Lions Tap Former Rakuten Eagles Manager Toshikai Imae as Quality control Coach
The Samsung Lions of the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) have announced the addition of Toshikai imae, former manager of the Rakuten Golden Eagles in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), as their new Quality Control (QC) coach.
Imae, who previously served as Rakuten’s manager in 2023 and held coaching positions with the team as 2020, will join the Lions on a part-time basis.
Imae’s Role and Previous Connection with the Lions
Imae’s contract will see him working with the Lions for 10-15 days each month until the end of September. During his time with the team, he will focus on improving the offensive skills of the Lions’ position players (hitters, fielders, and base runners).He will provide his expertise in hitting, fielding, and base running.
This isn’t Imae’s first experience with the Samsung Lions. He previously visited the team’s spring training camp in Okinawa after the 2024 season, working as a special instructor for two sessions. The positive connection established during that time led to the current agreement.
Q&A: Unpacking Toshikai Imae’s Role with the Samsung Lions
- What exactly does a Quality Control (QC) coach do?
- A QC coach analyzes data, identifies areas for advancement, and helps create strategies to enhance player performance. Imae will be focusing on offensive skills like hitting, fielding, and base running.
- Is Imae’s role full-time?
- No, Imae is joining the Lions on a part-time basis. He’ll be working with the team for 10-15 days each month until the end of September.
- What’s imae’s experience in baseball?
- Imae has extensive experience, including managing the Rakuten Golden Eagles in Japan’s NPB in 2023 and holding coaching positions with them since 2020. He also served as a special instructor with the Lions during their 2024 spring training.
- Why did the Lions choose Imae?
- His previous positive experience as a special instructor during the Lions’ spring training and his proven coaching abilities led to the current agreement. His expertise in offensive skills is a key factor.
- What can fans expect from Imae’s coaching?
- Fans can anticipate improvements in the Lions’ offensive performance, particularly in hitting, fielding, and base running.Imae’s focus will be on refining the skills of the position players.
with Imae’s expertise, the Samsung Lions aim to sharpen their offensive game. Keep an eye out for the impact he’ll have on the team’s performance this season!