Former Hanshin Tigers player and baseball pitcher, Kei Igawa, is trading in his baseball glove for movie scripts as he gears up to make his debut as an actor. Details of roles and projects are not disclosed yet. Igawa, well-known for his contribution to the sport, now wishes to showcase his talents and versatility in a different field.

Japan is home to a robust entertainment industry where former athletes transitioning into acting is not unheard of. Fans often celebrate such decisions, treating it as an evolution of their beloved players into new fields, away from the sports field. It's seen as a natural step when athletes consider their post-retirement careers.

This is similar to several instances in the US and EU where prominent athletes such as Dwayne Johnson, Terry Crews, and Vinnie Jones have successfully transitioned from sports to a career in acting. Public interest and response towards such transitions are typically positive and encouraging.