Royals hire Hillman as manager

CHICAGO (Reuters) - The Kansas City Royals have appointed Trey Hillman as manager in place of Buddy Bell, who resigned at the end of the regular season.

"Trey has spent the last five seasons turning the Nippon Ham Fighters into one of the top success stories in Japanese baseball including three trips to the post-season," Royals general manager Dayton Moore said in a statement on Friday.

The Fighters recently reached the finals of the Japan Series, a seven-game championship played by the winners of the country's two professional leagues.

Hillman, 44, has managed several minor league teams in the United States but never made the jump to the majors.

"This is a wonderful blessing and a great opportunity to build a winner in Kansas City," he said.

"I'll be joining an organization with tradition and pride while working with individuals that share my vision for success."

Financial terms of his multi-year agreement were not announced.

The Royals have not reached the post-season since winning the World Series in 1985.

The team were 69-93 this season, the fourth successive year they have finished last in the American League Central Division.