Top Japanese baseball player Hiroki Kikuchi has been sent to the minor leagues, as announced by his club. Kikuchi, known for his excellent pitching, has not been performing at his best lately, prompting the team's decision. It is expected that he will use this time in the minor leagues to refine his techniques and make a strong comeback.

In Japan, baseball is not just a sport—it is engrained in the culture, with deep emotional ties among followers. Therefore, any significant changes in team compositions, especially involving high profile players, get substantial attention.

This would be similar to situations in the US when high-profile Major League Baseball players are moved to minor league teams due to underperformance. It's a strategy often used for players to regain their form and confidence.