An unforgettable experience

We wrapped up a wonderful trip to Japan with the most exciting win of the series. Jose Reyes hit a game winning home run in the bottom of the 10th to secure the sweep. It was a well played game in which the Japanese rallied to tie the score in the top of the 9th inning before Reyes' home run. John Lackey pitched great again, followed by two clean innings by Chris Capuano and a scoreless eighth inning by fellow Padre Clay Hensley. Ryan Howard, to no surprise, was named the series MVP. Despite getting swept, the Japanese players were very talented and worthy competition. I was most impressed with their fierce determination and execution of the fundamentals of the game. Rarely was there a mental error made by a Japanese player, demonstrating their discipline, attention to detail, and overall knowledge of the game. In the end it seemed the power of the MLB hitters was the difference, although at no fault of the NPB pitchers. It's simply a testament to the ability of our hitters; I myself have given up plenty of home runs to the same guys that I cheered on in Japan!

Winning the series came in a distant second place to the overall cultural experience I received away from the field. I cannot offer enough gratitude for the Japanese people and their never ending hospitality. From the moment we arrived to the time we landed back in Chicago, we were treated like royalty by the Japanese people. Politeness, manners and respect are the norm, even in the huge city of Tokyo where space and privacy are non-existent. Furthermore, everything is extremely clean, a testament to the pride and respect the Japanese take in their county. The fans' generosity was appreciated and as I unpack from the trip, I marvel at the great souvenirs that I received from fans. I am extremely grateful to the country of Japan and their citizens for the incredible hospitality.

Playing against other teams during the MLB season affords brief encounters with opponents, but not the opportunity to know them on a personal level. I knew going into this trip that every player on the
team was an extremely talented baseball player and it was fun to watch each individual exhibit his talents. But the best part of getting to know the other MLB players was the humility and respect for the game that I saw from each teammate. There was great camaraderie and no individual player was competing for himself. It was a priority to win the series and, because it was such a good group of players with high character, we were able to accomplish the sweep. Finally, it was really neat to see the homecoming for Tadihito Iguchi and Kenji Johjima. Everywere we played they were the fan favorites, as the Japanese fans had great support for their national players competing in Major League Baseball. I hope it was as great an experience for them as it was for me. I'll never forget this wonderful trip and I hope that someday I will be fortunate to return to represent MLB again.