November 12, 2013: Kawaguchi, Japan – Thirty-eight-year-old Hisashi “Gigolo” Oike ended speculation today, announcing that he was through with his baseball career.  Oike returned to the LRS by signing a 1-year deal with the Transmitters in mid-season after being released by the U.S.-based Omaha Cyclones.  He was only 2-7 during his last LRS stint, but while his 4.86 ERA was mediocre, but he often pitched better than that.  Some think the decision was made easier when he was sidelined for two weeks late in the year with a sore elbow.

“I was happy to come back and play the game I love in my homeland,” Oike said.  “I appreciate Mr. Kyokai and Mr. Collins offering me that opportunity.  But it’s clear that my body isn’t what it was, and it’s time I let the young guys do their thing.”

Oike played two seasons with the (then) Ranma organization, registering a 15-8 record with 7 saves out of the bullpen before leaving for the U.S.  Filling a starting role, he compiled an honorable 70-39 record with three franchises, including going 18-5 in 2011 with Palm Springs.  Perhaps his best season was the year prior, however, when he registered a 1.76 ERA and a 14-4 record for the Codgers in 28 starts.

“Hisashi gave us everything he had,” said Transmitter GM Ron Collins.  “Our fans appreciate his effort and his role in moving us toward being a competitive franchise.  The entire Transmitter family wishes him well as he pursues his future endeavors.”

Oike said he will likely spend a few months at home with his family and consider his options.  At one point, he had been discussing the idea of starting a baseball organization in another country.  “There is so much more to this world than most people know,” he was quoted in a recent interview, “and baseball is a universal language.”