Joining an already crowded infield, former Chicago White Sox infielder Lyle Mouton will likely replace Takehiko Kobayakawa at first base.

Though he got the Swallows off to a winning start in 1997 by hitting three home runs on opening day, Kobayakawa slumped through most of the rest of the season. Mouton's defense may be a question mark, but his slugging has impressed Yakult's manager.

A former all-star shortstop with a long history of nagging injuries, home run slugger Takahiro Ikeyama begins his second season at third base.

Because of a conviction and suspension for tax evasion, regular shortstop Shinya Miyamoto won't be able to suit up on opening day.

Look for journeyman Katsuyuki Dobashi to play short while gold glove Toshifumi Baba and aging infield wizard Hatsuhiko Tsuji cover second. Manager Nomura may also try a new face at short or shift Ikeyama back to his old position during Miyamoto's four week suspension.

Ikeyama may be the only all-star guarding the base-paths, but together these players form one of the best defensive infields in Japan.