Japanese manga artist known for sports stories
Tributes pour in for Isao Harimoto, the Hit Machine, as his legacy of 3,085 hits, 504 home runs and 319 stolen bases is remembered. The Golden Players Club confirms his passing at 86, reflecting a career that shaped Nippon Professional Baseball.
Renowned manga artist Chiba has died at 87. His work, especially Ashita no Joe, inspired generations, blending sports drama with anti-war themes. Born in Tokyo in 1939, his early life in China during occupation shaped his storytelling. Kodansha confirms the death, with no cause disclosed.