Hirokazu Ibata (born May 12, 1975) is a Japanese professional baseball coach and former player in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). He is known for his versatility in the field, having played several infield positions over his career. He most recently served as manager of the Japanese national baseball team, stepping down after Japan was eliminated from the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Playing career
Ibata played second base for the Yomiuri Giants and shortstop for the Chunichi Dragons, and he is able to play at other positions as well. He retired at the end of the 2015 season. Afterward, he received an invitation from Yoshinobu Takahashi, the new manager of the Giants, to join the team's coaching staff.
Later career
After his retirement as a player, Ibata moved into coaching with the Giants under manager Yoshinobu Takahashi. His later work led to his appointment as manager of the Japanese national team, a role he held until his departure following the country's elimination from the 2026 World Baseball Classic.