The title marked the second time in team history that the Swallows have won the pennant a year after finishing last, a feat they also accomplished in 2015.
The tradition of giving Japanese veterans hanging up their gloves one last chance to stand in front of a cheering crowd is one that should be cherished.
Hideki Kuriyama won two PL pennants and a Japan Series in Sapporo, but his greatest accomplishment may have been his contribution to the Angels two-way star's development.