The Tigers announced today that Katsuhiro Nakamura will be the franchise's first ever general manager.  They also announced that deputy director Satoshi Shimamura and assistant director Katsuhiko Kido will act as assistants to the general manager.

The following prepared statement from Nakamura was offered to the media by the Tigers:

We are still in the middle of the season, but I feel very honored for being named general manager of this Hanshin Tigers team that has so much history/tradition.

The Hanshin Tigers are fortunate to be supported by such enthusiastic and loyal fans, but this year the team is having one of the worst finishes to the season.  While there is urgency to rebuild this into an invincible team, it will be my job as GM to analyze/evaluate the organization and for everyone to pull together with a common understanding.  I would like to do my best, with help from the staff, to work as hard as possible to fulfill the expectations of the fans.  I would like to ask for your continued support and encouragement.

Source: Nikkan Sports 9/5/2012, Sponichi 9/5/2012, Daily Sports 9/5/2012