Takamatsu named new field manager of IBL's Toronto Maple Leafs

Photo: Toronto Maple Leafs

August 18, 2022

Official Toronto Maple Leafs News Release

TORONTO - The Toronto Maple Leafs are proud to announce that Garrett Takamatsu has been named their new field manager.

Takamatsu, the 2021 Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) MVP and 2018 IBL Rookie of the Year, takes over the position effective immediately.

The 24-year-old Burlington, Ont., native began this season as a player for the Leafs before signing a professional contract with the Quebec Capitales of the Frontier League in May.

From there, he posted a slash line of .291/.377/.370 before returning to Toronto last week.

Now he becomes the youngest field manager in franchise history and replaces Topolie, who has been in the role since 2013.

Topolie said he could not think of a better person for the job than Takamatsu.

"The fact that Tak wanted to stay involved in any role that we could offer him shows me his true character and the person that he is. He is a fantastic baseball player but is an even better human being,” said Topolie.

Takamatsu said it is an honour to be named the Leafs manager.

"It will definitely be a new experience for me. Of course, I wish I could help the team on the field considering the injuries that have occurred,” he said. “Unfortunately, there are some things that are out of my control and I’m happy to still be involved with this great group of guys. I wouldn’t have expected to start managing until my career was over but I’m going to make the best of the situation. I know my presence in the locker room and on the bench will give the team a much-needed boost and a chip on their shoulder heading into the playoffs."