Prominent baseball manager, Shinjo, has recently spoken about his DM (Direct Message) to player Daikai Ito. This move is unique, as it sets a new precedent in the player-coach relationship in Japan's Baseball League, with communication generally being formal and face-to-face. Public reactions have varied, with some viewing the act as encouraging a more relaxed, approachable coaching style while others question potential impacts on professional boundaries.

In Japan, sports are often associated with discipline, respect, and an emphasis on the chain of command. Managers and players typically interact in a well-defined, structured manner. Thus, a casual and unorthodox method like direct messaging can seem out-of-place, stirring debate about changing social norms and the effect of technology on long-standing traditions.

In US or EU, specifically in their sports leagues, informal communication like direct messages, texts, or tweets are more common, reflecting a lower power distance and more casual player-coach relationships. Nevertheless, such communication still maintains a balance with formal communication to ensure professional boundaries are not overstepped.