Kudo and Kimura to Host Daily Radio Sports Program
12/13/2012: Tokyo, Japan – ESPN-Japan has chosen the popular veteran middle infielders of the Niihama-Shi Ghosts for the first nationally syndicated radio program devoted solely to the League of the Rising Sun.

“Kudo and Kimura in the Morning” will debut on ESPN-Japan Radio on January 3, 2013.  Hosting will be the Ghosts’ longtime second baseman, 35-year-old Sadao Kudo, and his double-play partner, 34-year-old shortstop Naizen Kimura.

The duo have served as the starting middle infield for the Ghosts since 2008 and helped bring the squad two straight Shining Star Group Wasei Junkesshou titles in 2010 and 2011.  In addition, the two good off-the-field friends have perfected a stand-up comedy routine that proved popular during the off-season at their co-owned nightclub in Niihama-shi, “Extra Innings.”

“Kudo and Kimura are, together, rare talents,” said ESPN-Japan president Fujiwara Chiaki.  “They obviously know baseball from the inside as well as any commentators, and their sometimes vicious wit will make them endlessly entertaining.  As a baseball fan, I can’t wait.”

At the news conference announcing their hiring by ESPN, the two were asked if they would pull any punches in commenting on the management of the Ghosts.  “Ghosts management is an oxymoron,” quipped Kudo.  “Who are you calling a moron?” Kimura countered.

“Seriously,” continued Kudo, “we plan to comment on every aspect of life in the LRS, including how our team is playing.  We will spare no one.”

Sources indicate both Kudo and Kimura – with their team in rebuilding mode following a disastrous 2012 season – are contemplating retirement and view broadcasting as their next career.

The program will even continue during the regular season, with Kudo and Kimura broadcasting via satellite live each morning from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m., whether the Ghosts are at home or on the road.

“This will be nice because Kudo hasn’t been up by 8 a.m. since he was in diapers,” laughed Kimura.  “At least I’m out of diapers,” Kudo jabbed back.