Gertie and the BBAs sexist GM listen to Wolves legend say goodbye...
A Wolves Legend Says Goodbye: Manobu Shimizu Announces Retirement Madison, WI — After 21 incredible seasons, all but 61 games in a Madison Wolves uniform, future Hall of Famer Manobu Shimizu is officially hanging up his cleats. The announcement was made today in an emotional press conference at Shotz Stadium, flanked by new Wolves owner (and Manobu’s biggest fan) Gertie Hanies, the BBAS sexiest GM, old teammates, and members of the media.
Gertie spoke at length about Manobu’s unmatched contributions to the Wolves, not just as a generational hitter and defensive anchor, but as a quiet leader, a teacher, and a presence that elevated the organization every day for more than two decades.Gertie wrote:“This has been coming for a while now. Mano-bu-Bear and I have had many late-night talks these past few months. When the tendinitis in both knees just wouldn't quit, he finally looked me in the eye and said, ‘I think it’s time, Gertie.’ And my heart broke just a little.”
Shimizu's Career by the Numbers:
2651 games, 3452 hits, 521 HR, 1936 RBI, .339 AVG, .974 OPS, 104.5 career WAR
He retires as one of the most statistically dominant players in BBA history.
Manobu SpeaksStanding at the podium with his interpreter, Shimizu addressed the crowd:
There wasn’t a dry eye in the house.Manobu (via interpreter) wrote:“I gave everything to this game. I gave everything to this city. I have loved every moment in a Wolves uniform—from the championships to the bus rides, from the deafening crowds to the quiet batting cages. This was home. Gertie gave me a home. And it’s hard to let that go.”
Honoring a LegendGertie announced that the Wolves will immediately begin honoring Manobu Shimizu in the following ways:
- Effective today, the Wolves will retire his iconic jersey number: #23
- A bronze statue will be commissioned for the Shotz Stadium plaza
- A special “Manobu Day” will take place next season with fan giveaways, tribute videos, and player reunions
Gertie wrote:“We don’t just lose a ballplayer today. We lose a cornerstone. But his legacy is welded into this franchise forever.”
Career Highlights & Accolades:
4x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x Silver Slugger, 2x Championship Series MVP, 104.5 career WAR, .339/.400/.575 slash line
Manobu led the league in hits six different seasons, hit over .300 in 17 separate campaigns, and ranks among the greatest to ever step foot in the BBA.
...more to come
#23Forever
#WolvesLegend
