I never really cared that much about American baseball until I moved to Japan and wanted something the kids would have interest in when I introduced myself. I explained in my introductions that CT is halfway between Boston and New York, and that in my family, my dad and I like the Red Sox, and my sister and my mom like the Yankees. When I asked, all the kids knew the Yankees because of Matsui being on the team, but not a soul knew the Red Sox. BLASPHEMY, I cried. But without a Japanese player, the kids had no idea who they were and no interest in finding out. Suddenly, I became a much more rabid fan. My team was not to be ignored! And I told them all, "well, when they get a Japanese player, you'll know them! I bet they will be the next team to get one!"

And somehow, from across the world, the Red Sox heard my plea, and aquired themselves a Japanese player!! Matsuzaka Daisuke, one of Japan's star pitchers, went through the posting system to join an American Major League team. Last week in class, me and one of the English teachers made our example conversation around Matsuzaka and which teams were bidding on him. As usual, all the kids thought the Yankees would get him. I told them, NO, the Red Sox would get him for sure.

Today's class was about "does" and "doesn't", and I took unusual pleasure from asking "Does Matsuzaka play for the Yankees?" "No, he doesn't". "Does he play for the Red Sox?" "Yes, he does." (*^_^*) Next thing you know, I'll be starting a proper Red Sox/Yankees rivalry in Japan. Oh yeah.

Thank you, Boston Red Sox, you have made a lifelong fan out of me. And definately increased your fame and fanbase in a foreign country that loves baseball. Good work!!