Welcome To Chicago, Mr. Fukudome

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 9:54 AM CST in Chicago Cubs News

Wrigley Field, Wednesday evening, December 19, 2007. Photo by David Sameshima

As I think we all expected, yesterday we saw a very different ballplayer than anyone who's ever played for the Cubs before, not surprising, since Kosuke Fukudome is the first Japanese player in Cubs history -- and even though we've all followed Ichiro, and Hideki Matsui, and Hideo Nomo, and others, from afar, this is the first time we've had a Japanese player as "ours", to root for and hope for him to be a great success on this side of the Pacific.

Fukudome seems respectful, confident and focused. He's quoted in Jay Mariotti's column:

"Hi, my name is Kosuke Fukudome," he said politely in his opening remarks. "I am very happy to be able to sign my contract and play with this historic team. I look forward to playing in such a historic ballpark and playing in front of such ecstatic fans."

Ecstaic -- well, that's what we'll be if he can help the Cubs win the championship that's been elusive for a century. He knows about that, too:

"That didn't factor too much in my choice,'' he said of the infamous futility. "If I can do my best and help bring a championship to this city, that will be the best thing I can do.

"I've always wanted the challenge to come over here and see what I could do. We'll see how well I do.

I liked what I saw and heard yesterday. Now we wait to see what else Jim Hendry has up his sleeve -- Brian Roberts is still on his Christmas wish list, according to Dave van Dyck.

UPDATE [2007-12-20 11:00:36 by Al]: Here's a Japanese-language article about the news conference. Anyone with a knowledge of Japanese who'd like to translate this, feel free, and either post it or email it to me and I'll post it.

Tweet Comment 104 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Can't....

wait to see him in action...welcome Kosuke! Your addition is very refreshing and look forward to seeing you patroling the Friendly Confines!

You ARE freaking out MAN!

by crw89 on Dec 20, 2007 9:40 AM CST reply actions

I really admire...

...the loyalty players show in the Japanese league. Seems like it is a much bigger ordeal to trade or change teams than it is here. You can tell Fukudome weighed heavily upon his decision to come to Chicago.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Dec 20, 2007 9:42 AM CST reply actions

Letters

I hear that several people posted letters to Fukudome's web site the week of the general managers' meetings (maybe even later).

I was one of them.

I figured I'd share my words again with all of you. If you are interested, read on. Otherwise, feel free to dismiss and move on.

I would be interested in reading what others may have sent. If you did and care to share, feel free to include it here.

This is an historic event in Chicago sports history. Let's hope it now pays off...

This is the Cubs new #1!

by initram on Dec 20, 2007 10:08 AM CST reply actions

I posted one

and its probably in the archives...

The funniest thing was how Google handled the translations!

I hope at some point Al gets to ask him if he ever saw these posts.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 20, 2007 10:42 AM CST up reply actions

I just have a feeling

that Roberts is going to be a Cub, probably in the next couple weeks. Looking at what McPhail took back for Tejada, there's no way we couldn't make him an acceptable offer for Roberts. We have a supposed need and Baltimore doesn't need Roberts so much. Once again, Angelos is the sticking point but if he's willing I do believe we'll have ourselves a new 2b next year. I see it happening.

Now if DeRosa replaces Theriot at short I'll be happy as can be. Nothing against Theriot but DeRosa's bat would be a significant improvement.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Dec 20, 2007 10:36 AM CST reply actions

Right on...

I second that. Not that Theriot didn't provide a spark in his own way, but they have to find a way for DeRosa to play every day, and short seems like the only real option, assuming the Roberts trade happens. He deserves more than to be a utility guy.

by ampersandcult on Dec 20, 2007 10:51 AM CST up reply actions

I'd be amazed

to see DeRosa at SS. He hasn't ever been a regular SS in the majors and his age and physical makeup would seem to preclude anything but an emergency start or a few innings now and then.

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Dec 20, 2007 2:19 PM CST up reply actions

I Read Somewhere...

... that Hendry and McFAIL left the winter's meetings with the notion to wait until Tejada and Bedard were pushed.

The Cubs have several players that could play into a deal for Roberts. The O's wouldn't know what they needed until Tejada and Bedard were pushed.

We just hope that this still stands. And, from what I hear, the Cubs still have Roberts on their "wishlist" (source cited from this main page) and are not deterred by Roberts' name being mentioned/admission of one-time steroid use.

Conflicting reports show that the O's could push Bedard and Roberts by the end of the week (or within a week). On the other hand, I have heard that the O's are not impressed with any current offers for Bedard.

This is the Cubs new #1!

by initram on Dec 20, 2007 10:59 AM CST up reply actions

Sounds like a great opportunity

to finally dump Cedeno.

Can't stand that kid. He's got the baseball IQ of a rat turd.

Ed Lynch is STILL on the Cubs payroll, as our D-Backs scout in Phoenix. Lynch attends all 81 D-Back home games with a notepad in hand. Really paid off for us!

by SackMan on Dec 20, 2007 2:57 PM CST up reply actions

Amen to that

How many headfirst slides into first . . . among other things.

by Shanghai Badger on Dec 20, 2007 4:00 PM CST up reply actions

One of my pet peaves

are guys who slide into first when they are not trying to avoid a tag. Didn't Jerry Hairston Jr. do that all the time as well?

You are taught early on, the quickest way to any base in running through the bag. Some guys, just don't get it.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Dec 21, 2007 11:45 AM CST up reply actions

Absolutely...

... you slide not only to avoid a tag, but to potentially avoid a collision/injury as well.

This is the Cubs new #1!

by initram on Dec 22, 2007 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

We all know

that running through the bag at 1st is quicker than going in headfirst, right? But is it? Has anyone seen any timed comparisons actually proving that?

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Dec 22, 2007 6:48 PM CST up reply actions

Not worth a diary

but Silva signs with the Mariners. 4 years for $44 Mil. Looking at a deal like that, I'm still ok with the Cubs keeping Marquis around.

I expect that this takes Seattle out of any Bedard discussions. It wouldn't surprise me if he's still with the O's in Spring Training.

by rlpete on Dec 20, 2007 10:48 AM CST reply actions

Actually...

... that signing probably makes Marquis and/or Dempster VERY desirable in terms of their performance possibilities, and how much they're making.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 10:57 AM CST up reply actions

If Dempster is desirable

trade him immediately. I just don't see how moving him to the rotation will be anything but bad. I'm still in favor of hanging around to Marquis at least until the rotation is firmed up.

by rlpete on Dec 20, 2007 11:00 AM CST up reply actions

Silva

One would think with the signing of Silva that some dominoes will start to fall beyond the top notch pitchers. Yes, Haren and Willis have been traded but beyond that, there has been a ton of talk and little action. With Silva off the market and the market now being set, one would think that teams looking for starters will now be more serious about getting a deal done. All one has to do is look at the various website's lists of top remaining free agents to see names like Colon and Clement. So there are two methods of attack for GMs, push hard for guys like Santana or Bedard or go after the others. This would include guys like Marquis and Dempster.

I just find it incredibly difficult to believe that Hendry will go into the season with both of these guys in the rotation. If we're going to be subject to that kind of inconsistency, it better be with someone pre-arbitration who has a high ceiling.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 11:31 AM CST up reply actions

Well put

Marquis and Dempster can't both be in the rotation-- if you want to win a WS.

Zambrano
Lilly
Hill
[better fourth starter]
Marquis or Dempster

"These are terrible times, and I shouldn't joke about them." --Warren Zevon

by ExNorthsider on Dec 20, 2007 1:27 PM CST up reply actions

I agree

to the tenth degree

by Johnny Callison was a Cub on Dec 20, 2007 11:15 PM CST up reply actions

Let Marquis have his usual steller April

and early May, then trade him ASAP to whoever is in a pickle due to an arm injury.

Once the weather gets warm, Marquis starts giving up the long ball at a record pace.

Ed Lynch is STILL on the Cubs payroll, as our D-Backs scout in Phoenix. Lynch attends all 81 D-Back home games with a notepad in hand. Really paid off for us!

by SackMan on Dec 20, 2007 2:55 PM CST up reply actions

I THINK WE ARE GONNA NEED...

...To hire a resident Japanese translator for BCB?!

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Dec 20, 2007 11:18 AM CST reply actions

has it been determined

will he wear Kosuke or Fukudome on his jersey?

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Dec 20, 2007 11:22 AM CST reply actions

Press conference

had the last name on the back of the jersey with the #1

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 20, 2007 11:49 AM CST up reply actions

Quote of teh DAY!

From the article I got from Cubs.com newsletter today:

"How I thought when I played against American pitchers is that they pitch with a lot of movement on the ball," Fukudome said. "The biggest thing for me in the beginning is to adapt to those pitches, make contact with those pitches. I'll probably start out with a more compact swing than try to hit for the fences."

CAN I GET A HALLELUJAH?

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Dec 20, 2007 11:37 AM CST reply actions

HALLELUJAH!

Happy now?

And may his good plate sense somehow prove contagious among his teammates...

by MN exile on Dec 20, 2007 12:12 PM CST up reply actions

LOL!

Does he know we don't have "fences". ;-)

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 20, 2007 12:31 PM CST up reply actions

re: HALLELUJAH!

Namely, one Felix Pie.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Dec 20, 2007 12:55 PM CST up reply actions

indeed...

that's PRECISELY what I'm hoping...

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Dec 20, 2007 2:01 PM CST up reply actions

A little off-topic...

...my brother-in-law knows I'm a Cubs fan, and has seen my Mark Prior jersey hanging up around the house.

So yesterday we get our Christmas package from him, and what do I get?

An authentic pitching rubber, autographed by Mark Prior. He bought it for me before the Cubs nontendered him.

It's absurdly cool and all. I just have no idea how I'm going to handle this. Does it get displayed or not?

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Dec 20, 2007 11:41 AM CST reply actions

I think you answered your own question...

...BEFORE we non-tendered him. As cool as a item that is, you have to display it. Maybe I'd lie a bit about the timing, however. :)

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Dec 20, 2007 11:48 AM CST up reply actions

regift...

... do you know any Padre fans, or Astro fans, or Red, Met, Ranger or Yankee fans?

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 11:51 AM CST up reply actions

Your Brother-in-Law Got You...

... a rubber?

This is the Cubs new #1!

by initram on Dec 20, 2007 2:37 PM CST up reply actions

I SO was going to say that...

but thought better of it, and now I know why.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 20, 2007 2:53 PM CST up reply actions

I guess that's better than a towel.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Dec 20, 2007 2:56 PM CST up reply actions

Is it a used rubber?

Eew.

Ed Lynch is STILL on the Cubs payroll, as our D-Backs scout in Phoenix. Lynch attends all 81 D-Back home games with a notepad in hand. Really paid off for us!

by SackMan on Dec 20, 2007 2:59 PM CST up reply actions

Mark Prior's used rubber...

just think of all the "towels snaps" he probably did off of that.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 20, 2007 3:02 PM CST up reply actions

I vote for...

display. I would love to have something like that. I have an autographed ball with minor league baseball players that may amount to nothing and I display that.

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." -Johan Santana

by sparkles721 on Dec 20, 2007 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

Technically...

While he never played an inning in Chicago, we did have Hideo Nomo in Iowa for 21 days back in 1999. He then went 12-8 for the Brewers after he was cut.

In the middle of a good time, Truth gave me her icy kiss. Look around, you must be joking. All that way, all that way for this -Oysterband

by Ross on Dec 20, 2007 11:47 AM CST reply actions

Yeah, Ed Lynch

said he was through. He released him.

Sure glad he's still scouting for us.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 20, 2007 11:51 AM CST up reply actions

Roberts deal done?

weblogs.baltimoresun.com/sports/roch/blog/2007/12/roberts_rumors.html

anyone confirm?

by Rezze21 on Dec 20, 2007 1:04 PM CST reply actions

Nothing on WSCR

I've been listening on and off this afternoon, including Stone's spot on murph, and nothing about Roberts except discussion about what the line-up would look like if he were acquired.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 1:32 PM CST up reply actions

WSCR

Latest update says that the cubs are still pursing Roberts and thought to be offering some package possibly including Murton, Patterson and Gallagher. Also said they're after Joe Blanton.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 1:37 PM CST up reply actions

Isn't that a lot?

Murton, sure. Patterson, has he been MLB-tested enough?? Gallagher, okay.

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Dec 20, 2007 2:03 PM CST up reply actions

IMO

Murton, Patterson and Gallagher for Roberts is probably close to the deal if it happens.

by rlpete on Dec 20, 2007 2:18 PM CST up reply actions

Frankly...

... though I like Murton (at least as a platoon player), he no longer has a position. Eric Patterson has attitude problems. The only guy I'd miss out of this deal is Gallagher.

If this is what it takes, I'm for it. (Maybe a low-level pitching prospect could be had in addition to Roberts.)

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 3:48 PM CST up reply actions

I hate it

unless hendry throws in more players with bedard part of the deal, it's not worth it. roberts isn't worth giving up gallagher

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Dec 20, 2007 9:10 PM CST up reply actions

Blanton?

Tell me more.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Dec 20, 2007 2:15 PM CST up reply actions

Tell me more....

Did you get very far?

Like, does he have a car?

PERRY!!!!

by Goat Whisperer on Dec 20, 2007 2:18 PM CST up reply actions

LOL

by rlpete on Dec 20, 2007 2:20 PM CST up reply actions

re: Tell me more....

Great, now I have that frickin' song in my head!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Dec 20, 2007 2:29 PM CST up reply actions

Blanton

It was mentioned that the Cubs were interested. Steve Stone was on with Mike Murphy (Stone does weekly appearances during the offseason) and gave the prediction that the Cubs were likely to add another middle of the rotation starter and he also mentioned Blanton as a possibility. The notable wording that Stone used was that it would be interesting to see some guys who are expecting to play next year in Chicago but won't. I read that as Marquis and/or Dempster being dealt.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 2:59 PM CST up reply actions

Blanton?

I'm not sure I want him. He's right handed, and that's pretty much the one way I can think of that he will help the Cubs. He has gone downhill lately too.

I heard Mike Murphy and Stone this morning, and he said that Rich Hill would probably go if Blanton came. I think it was all speculation but I think I prefer Hill over Blanton. There just really needs to be a right hander in the rotation or someone different. Where are all these starters going to go? We have more than we need, but it isn't necessarily quality.

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." -Johan Santana

by sparkles721 on Dec 20, 2007 3:20 PM CST up reply actions

re: Blanton?

How has he gone downhill lately? He finished 2006 with a 4.82 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and .309 BAA. He lowered all of those numbers in 2007 (3.95 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and .269 BAA) -- and he pitched more innings (194.1 in 2006, 230 in 2007).

I'm not necessarily advocating a trade for him, but it seems like he could be a slightly better version of Marquis, no?

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Dec 20, 2007 3:40 PM CST up reply actions

Sorry...

I didn't look up his stats and was going on my memory only. I think its the buzz that he was a 16 game winner with a horrible ERA. He was leading at some point in wins(tied with others)but he had a bad ERA that showed he had awesome run support and luck. I think that stuck with me so I made that comment.

He was a huge innings eater last year. I didn't know that. He would definitely be an improvement over Marquis. I would definitely love to have him if that's who he replaced. He's also making very little compared to so many others. He's a great bargain money-wise.

I like Joe. I think I just talked myself into wanting him.

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." -Johan Santana

by sparkles721 on Dec 20, 2007 5:34 PM CST up reply actions

Horrible ERA....

is a bit extreme of me. He wasn't that horrible when he won 16 games.

I'm making dumb comments today.

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." -Johan Santana

by sparkles721 on Dec 20, 2007 5:35 PM CST up reply actions

Papelbon's dog destroys baseball

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3163105

Yup, his dog ate the ball from the last out of the World Series.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 1:07 PM CST reply actions

LMAO!!!

"The dog ate my baseball". Sounds like a sheepish sixth-grader talking about his homework.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 1:49 PM CST up reply actions

Yeah I ate it...

whadda ya gonna do about it Tough Guy?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 20, 2007 2:17 PM CST up reply actions

i smell conspiracy...

but then again, I always smell

conspiracy that is

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Dec 20, 2007 9:07 PM CST up reply actions

Cubs Considering So Taguchi?

I don't know about this. Anyone in town here this rumor on the radio?

http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/12/cubs-considerin.html

Did he just say funky butt-loving?

by Louie on Dec 20, 2007 1:46 PM CST reply actions

I did not hear this.

Meh. Taguchi's 38, although he did have a pretty good year as a backup OF last year. If he's signed, that probably means Sam Fuld doesn't make the team.

If they do this, I'd rather it be on a minor league deal with a camp invite.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 1:56 PM CST up reply actions

Taguchi would be okay

he could be alright as a bench player if the price is right. Fuld might be overrated

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Dec 20, 2007 9:06 PM CST up reply actions

Ya

Overheard on WSCR during a sports update...that the Cubs were looking at Taguchi as a utility outfielder and to help Fukudome's transition to the majors.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 2:53 PM CST up reply actions

Pick him up

So To Juicey

PC load letter, what the f*** does that mean?

by cubfaninSTL on Dec 20, 2007 2:57 PM CST up reply actions

So

I dont really have a problem at all getting So for one year.

A speedy outfielder who plays all 3 spots and can run a bit.....what else is there?

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Dec 20, 2007 3:02 PM CST up reply actions

FUKUDOME!

Should be interesting to see the fan base he draws. I remember back when Choi was on the team...there were several games w/ great number of Korean fans. One game in particular, there must have been a 50 ft x 50 ft sign for him that they briefly hung from the RF upper deck. It was too bad that Dusty benched him that day...

You can't quiet THE RIOT (riotshirts.com)

by TipsyMcStagger on Dec 20, 2007 2:10 PM CST reply actions

Fukudome

I read on Foxsports.com rumors section that the White Sox actually offered Kosuke more money but the Cubs promised him RF and were there from the beginning and the end to try and get him. Anybody know if that's true or not?

by McRipper on Dec 20, 2007 2:13 PM CST reply actions

well

from what I have read, they offered him the same contract. He just picked the Cubs because they pursued him from the start.

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Dec 20, 2007 3:29 PM CST up reply actions

How come nobody thinks...

this guy had something to do with it?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Dec 20, 2007 3:34 PM CST up reply actions

"Live" is boring, Chanman?

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Dec 20, 2007 3:46 PM CST up reply actions

Tribune sale?

No post or diary on this? Zell now officially owns the Cubs. FitzSimons has stepped down from TribCo, and Crain's is reporting that the team will be sold by opening day. Also, Zell is saying he'll sell naming rights to Wrigley before that. Anyone know if Crane Kenney still has a job?

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Dec 20, 2007 5:23 PM CST reply actions

Naming rights?

What does that mean? They are selling Wrigley? Wrigley is getting re-named? Sorry if this is a dumb question.

"I don't talk. I just let what I do talk for myself." -Johan Santana

by sparkles721 on Dec 20, 2007 5:30 PM CST up reply actions

wrigley

will eventually get some naming rights, but the name "wrigley" should be in there somewhere.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Dec 20, 2007 9:03 PM CST up reply actions

Zell is

going to do an interview tonight on CTL.

"But being a nasty hateful person she can't help herself." KOW

by sue369 on Dec 20, 2007 5:51 PM CST up reply actions

It means

Selling to an advertiser the rights to put their name on the park, in some defined way. They probably won't rename it completely, but do something like "the Honda Ballpark at Wrigley Field," or something. Zell will apparently take advantage of those millions, then sell the team with the new owner stuck with a dorky name for the stadium for a fixed period of time (5 or 10 years).

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Dec 20, 2007 5:55 PM CST reply actions

Maybe Zell could sell the rights

to Allstate. I can see it now:

Good Hands BallPark at Wrigley Field :-)

I can't wait for 2008!

by LAcarl519 on Dec 20, 2007 6:33 PM CST up reply actions

The new owner...

... should approach the Wrigley Company and see if they can sell the rights to them to keep that name on the park.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 8:41 PM CST up reply actions

Zell

According to XM Zell said today that he plans on having the Cubs sale completed by opening day 2008.

DmL

by dmlichte on Dec 20, 2007 8:08 PM CST reply actions

Which may or may not happen.

So, Tribune Co. passed into the hands of a new owner today.

Nothing happened with Cubs management. I suspect Crane Kenney will be in charge until the day the team is sold. I'm guessing the rest of their management also will remain the same, and I doubt anyone will be dumped from the baseball management team right when the season starts, even if that's right when the ownership change occurs.

More than likely, the current Cub baseball and marketing folks will keep their jobs through the end of the 2008 season, at which time the new ownership will assess what they've got.

Good example: when the Red Sox were sold to the current ownership (I forget what year exactly that was -- 2001 or 2002, maybe?) the ONLY person who was replaced was the GM, Dan Duquette, and that was only because he was so universally disliked. Almost everyone else in the organization was retained.

That's why today's Tribune transaction wasn't really worth a post. Nothing happened to the Cubs, and likely won't for some months.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 8:40 PM CST up reply actions

I'll see what I can do...

I don't ever do anything but lurk here, but since I live in Japan I thought I'd chime in on this post.

I tell you, this makes me real happy. Japanese people don't know American teams unless they have a Japanese player. As a Cubs fan since the womb, I'm tired of people always assuming I'm a White Sox fan...

I've got some free time here at work, so I'll see if I can't translate that article (if nobody else with better Japanese wants to try).

by Diamondrock on Dec 20, 2007 8:47 PM CST reply actions

Hey, cool.

You can either post it yourself or email it to me.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 9:11 PM CST up reply actions

projections for Fukudome?

anyone? maybe you have, but me thinks it goes like this:

.280/.365/.465 with 14 HRs.

Japanese players don't translate well to MLB, at least in the 1st year. Don't expect H. Matsui-numbers. is that worth $48 million bucks for 4 years? we will see.

I find it funny that ANYONE would mention fukudome's name with hideki matsui. it would be nice, but it just won't happen. the cubs might have been better off signing jenkins to platoon with murton, and i don;t even like murton much

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Dec 20, 2007 9:01 PM CST reply actions

Disagree.

Fukudome may not put up his Japanese numbers here, but I think you are underestimating his production.

If you have a specific reason why you think Fukudome couldn't put up Matsui numbers, tell us why. Now, the fact is, he probably won't, and people are calling him more of a cross between Matsui and Ichiro (less power, but maybe a higher average and more walks). We'd take that.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 20, 2007 9:13 PM CST up reply actions

Reply

It seems in the little I've read your posts, that you never like ANY trade or signing. You always have a reason why they should NOT have signed someone, or paid the money (as if its yours).

"the cubs might have been better off signing jenkins to platoon with murton, and i don;t even like murton much..."

As you said...we'll see. I hope you're wrong.

I like Murton. He's a terrific 4TH OF. We MAY still have him as an insurance policy anyway. But equuating Matt Murton and Jenkins to Fukudome??

"Whatever Dude."

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 20, 2007 9:45 PM CST up reply actions

PECOTA

has Fukudome estimated at .289/.401/.504. It only has him hitting 15 home runs, but it also has him missing a month because of his elbow surgery last year, which from all accounts shouldn't be a problem. (Of course, he could get injured some other way.)

I really, really wish this blog was around in the early 1950s. Then we could have people saying "Sure, that Ernie Banks was great in the Negro Leagues, but he's going to struggle when he actually has to face major league pitching every day. Sorry, but I don't see him being any more than a part time player. We'd be better off keeping Roy Smalley."

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh Timmers on Dec 20, 2007 9:59 PM CST up reply actions

I think the root of this sort of thinking...

...is in the way people view the minor leagues compared to the major leagues. It's pretty common to view the minors -- especially below AAA -- as being almost some sort of beer league.

The reality of it is that the league differences aren't as drastic as one might suspect. (I'm almost willing to go out on a limb and say the difference between the PCL and the NL Central is smaller than the difference between the NL Central and the AL Central. But that would be irresponsible. At least, until I have something to back it up with.)

I've seen a lot of people (especially on other baseball sites) say that Fukudome is getting paid a lot of money "for someone that's never played an inning in the major leagues," as though the Cubs picked him up out of the Mexican League or the Frontier League.

Here's the real kicker -- assume that all current minor-leaguers were granted free agency en masse. Just picture the contracts that guys like Jay Bruce, Evan Longoria and Colby Rasmus would get. It would absolutely dwarf ARod. Absolutely.

And someone out there would say, "But Colby Rasmus has never had an at-bat in the majors!"

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Dec 21, 2007 12:37 AM CST up reply actions

Good point

on the free minors, and that's exactly why the minors were enslaved in the 1930s and 1940s. (And why the reserve clause came into play in the 1880s.) Players like Lefty Grove were held out of the majors for years as Baltimore demanded a king's ransom for their contract. Eventually the majors revolted and the minors couldn't stay afloat in the Great Depression, and the minor league teams lost their independence in exchange for a subsidy.

NPB is an old fashioned independent minor league.

I will agree with you that the difference between the PCL and the majors is less than we think, although I think saying that it's less than the difference between the NL Central and the AL Central is a bit of hyperbole. The difference between the leagues isn't THAT great.

But I will say that NPB is better than AAA. It's been called AAAA and that's about right. The problem is guys like Tuffy Rhodes or Alex Cabrera who go over there and dominate. People remember them in America and think "They stunk here and are great there. Therefore, it must be a lousy league over there." But don't forget, Cecil Fielder stunk in America before he went over to Japan, and then he came back and hit 51 home runs in the US. Sometimes guys like Rhodes or Cabrera fall through the cracks in the US, and they're actually a lot better than people thought they were. Sometimes players just get a lot better over there.

But when I look at guys like Adam Riggs or Aaron Guiel, they did worse in NPB than they did in AAA, and not much better than they were in the majors.

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh Timmers on Dec 21, 2007 1:13 AM CST up reply actions

The larger issue is that NPB...

...used to be an extreme hitter's league; a few new ballparks have softened it up a bit but it's still favorable to hitters. This is why you don't see journeymen AAA pitchers -- the Les Walrond types -- going over to Japan and turning into aces the same way you do with journeymen hitters.

I would suggest you learn to truly interrupt all stats before using any selective stats. -- cubswin

by cwyers on Dec 21, 2007 11:21 AM CST up reply actions

Fukudome's batting style

Hi, I'm a lifetime fan of Chunichi Dragons, as well as MLB since 80's as a former US tax payer.

I've been watching Fukudome for last 9 years at my team, Dragons, even before he join the team (he was a star player at high school - PL Gakuen), and I know most of Dragons fans including myself are not very optimistic about his 1 year numbers. It's not just because of past examples of other Japanese players like Hideki Matsui or Kaz Matsui (he's actually from same high school with Fukudome), but because of his batting style.

He's typical mistake hitter until he's got behind in the count, and not very good at hitting change-ups. There are only a few pitchers who throws good change-up in Japanese league, and we saw too many his early swing against them. We are anticipating that will be the biggest problem he will face than the difference of zone.

After he's in the hole, he can hit off-speed pitch to left field, just in case he wait for it....still waiting fastball in many cases, and won't swing if the pitch is not the one he's waiting for, even it's right in the middle. That's his famous self-judgement (aka "Fukudome Self" in Japanese English)... so be prepared and don't blame him when you see his that sort of struck out ;-)

Anyhow he is quality hitter with strong mindset, and very cool-headed, stoic and hard-working guy. I live in the town of Dragons' spring training site, and had watched his such hard work in past years (you will see some his photos in my flickr photostream - there are many Fukudome photos which are friends only). We Dragons fans are in mixed feeling, but looking for his success with Cubs.

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 21, 2007 2:36 PM CST up reply actions

Welcome to BCB!

Thanks for signing up. If what you say is true -- that Fukudome can't do well against changeups -- then he may have a longer adjustment period. I do think he'll be focused enough to make that adjustment, as you say.

Can you point out some good photosets of Fukudome on your Flickr site? I looked, but there are a lot of photos there and it would take a long time to look through them.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 21, 2007 7:39 PM CST up reply actions

Re: Welcome to BCB!

He's well understood about his pros and cons at bat, but I don't know he is flexible enough to change his style at this moment. He should be thinking that his skillset would match playing well in majors, but should also recognize this is his biggest challenge in his life. So I guess he'll try everything to fit...he's so stoic and dedicated person, as far as I know.

You can type Fukudome in search window on my flickr photostream page, or click on this.
http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=Fukudome&w=90091374%40N00
I have much more Fukudome photos but most of them are (Dragons fan) friends only. If you got flickr account and add me as a contact and email me inside, I will allow you to access them all.

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 21, 2007 8:16 PM CST up reply actions

YouTube movies of Fukudome

I also have some YouTube movies of Fukudome's batting practice in my neighborhood.
#66 is Dragons manager, Hiromitsu Ochiai, the 3-times triple crown guy. He is also teammate of Leon Lee, dad of Derek Lee, at Lotte Orions in Japanese league. Derek frquently visited stadium with his dad, so at least Ochiai should remember Derek in person, back in late 70's and early 80's.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=qZyy-5JLLL0
http://youtube.com/watch?v=KAhruUUjGiY
http://youtube.com/watch?v=97HbQVfYg3s
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7BJMfMg0VgU
http://youtube.com/watch?v=AkzYir_b-7w
http://youtube.com/watch?v=CRyqvjHxQW8

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 21, 2007 8:45 PM CST up reply actions

These are cool pics and videos!

Thanks for posting them. Have you seen some of the Japanese-language article links I have posted?

Would you be willing to translate some of those for us? If so, email me using the link on the right sidebar, so we can discuss. Thanks!

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 22, 2007 5:38 AM CST up reply actions

Re: Japanese article

Well the linked article is partial translation on this AFP one, so nothing more than this...
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5iwb4jJcdbfYzWE0tMM-bb-4Lw0Ew

We do have more unique articles about his move in Japanese point of view... there is one Chicago-based Japanese journalist called Kyoko Umeda, and she's writing a lot article about him...
I know some fans don't like her article, but she's been writing for Chubnichi Newspaper (major newspaper in Nagoya and the owner of Dragons, just like Tribune) and know Fukudome well.
This one by her is talking about how Cubs fan welcome him, including early "Fuku-mania"... she writes she checks in this kind Cubs fun site and reports you guys reactions...
http://www.chunichi.co.jp/chuspo/article/baseball/news/CK2007122202074115.html
Do you want me to summerize it in English?

I storongly hope you guys start using "Dome-Mania" which we used for years, instead of "Fuku-mania"...
There are too many (family) names starting with "Fuku" (Fukuhara, Fukusshima, Fukuyama, Fukuoka...and a pitcher called Fukumori just joined Rangers from Japan), so "Dome" (Doghu-may) is so unique...

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 22, 2007 6:24 AM CST up reply actions

Sure, go ahead and summarize...

... that article, and again, I may post other links to Japanese articles, if you would like to translate, that'd be great.

I agree, "Dome-Mania" would be way better than "Fuku-mania", for a lot of reasons.

Say, do you know of anywhere that anyone could buy a Fukudome Japanese jersey, either one from his Dragons career, or from the WBC? Several people here have looked without success.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Dec 22, 2007 7:19 AM CST up reply actions

Re: Fukudome Japanese jersey

Well I understand OTHER major reason to avoid to use "Fuku-mania"...

Only place you can buy Fukudome's Dragons is here at Dragons official licenser's shop (this is exclusive lisence), but looks like Fukudome's jersey is no longer on sale...
http://mpn.cjn.or.jp/mpn/contents/00002012/page/B064APAG.html
I don't know any 3rd party store at this moment...maybe some local shops in Nagoya should have stocks, but don't know details...sorry about that.

At Dragons spring training this year in my hometown, I found a US military family wholy dressed in Dragons jersey, including Fukudome....
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonsfanatic/400570549/

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 22, 2007 9:04 AM CST up reply actions

Well - the entire page

is in Japanese, EXCEPT the jersey!

Thank you.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 22, 2007 5:49 PM CST up reply actions

Re: Fukudome Japanese jersey

Here's a news article today says lots of Dome's Dragons jersey are hold in stock, and the wholesellers are looking for new channel or shop to sell them out...
Hope they can find good contact of sporting shops in Chicago...
http://www.chunichi.co.jp/chuspo/article/dragons/news/200712/CK2007122502074820.html

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 25, 2007 4:16 AM CST up reply actions

Cecil Fielder

Actually Cecil hit over 30 home runs in 500+ plate appearances with Toronto in a 4yr span, the problem was that he couldnt get anymore playing time there, he had lost his job to Fred McGriff. I guess it was nice problem to have for Toronto.

by SlamDog @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Dec 21, 2007 6:50 AM CST reply actions

Japanse article summery

Per Al's request... again I want you guys to use "Dome-mania" instead of "Fuku-mania"

* http://www.chunichi.co.jp/chuspo/article/baseball/news/CK2007122202074115.html
"Fuku-mania want Fukudome success"
- Cubs fans on the Net want Fukudome be another Sammy Sosa
- Sun-Times reports first Fuku-mania at Wrigley Field
- Cubs fans on local newspaper message board says "perfect addition to pursuit World champ first time in 100 years", "best right fielder since Sosa"
- Cubs fans still remember Sosa's performance of 1993-2004, and want Fukudome follow not just Sosa's numbers but also be another superstar

*Fukudome just arrived back in Japan tonight and hold press conference. Here's his quotes...

http://www.nikkansports.com/baseball/mlb/f-bb-tp2-20071222-298729.html
Said "very excited dressed in Cub jersey" "Don't have my goal numbers personally, just want to contribute Cubs to win world series"
http://www.asahi.com/sports/update/1222/NGY200712220004.html
Said "(Re: his saraly) can't imagine that big price. Just unreal." "Want to face Matsuzaka, but don't know I can hit".
Will have training camp with Takeshi Yamasaki (former Dragons teammate and homerun/RBI king this year) in Hawaii in Jan, then join Cubs spring training.
http://www.jiji.com/jc/c?g=spo_30&k=2007122200299
Said "want to face Peavy (as Fukudome faced him in WBC)
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/sports/mlb/news/20071222ie24.htm
Said "want to make myself successful like Ichiro - he is same outfielder and has great stats"

(BTW Ichiro's hometown is small town called Toyoyama, next to Nagoya - Dragons hometown. Ichiro was great Dragons fan when he was kid)

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 22, 2007 8:51 AM CST reply actions

Re: Japanese article summary

Some late articles on today's newspaper for Fukudome's quotes at airport press conf:

http://www.sanspo.com/mlb/top/mt200712/mt2007122307.html
- (Re:batting style) "I'll be flexible about it... would change some part on situation... nothing sacred."
- (Re:English language issue) "Will make some effort, but it will be my pain in the ass...will be haphazard in anyway..."

http://www.chunichi.co.jp/chuspo/article/baseball/news/CK2007122302074385.html
- (Re:Peavy) "Want to face Peavy again... in WBC I got a walk and a popup.
- (Re:Matsuzaka) "I went 0 for 8 against him in 2005. Want to face him again, definitely."

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 23, 2007 12:52 AM CST up reply actions

DragonFantastic

We will welcome you to Wrigley Field in 2008!

I have met many Japanese tourists enjoying baseball there, and always taking a photo of the famous front entrance (with the marquis that you see here).

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Dec 22, 2007 5:46 PM CST reply actions

Re: Wrigley Field

I've visited Chicago a couple of times, not as a tourist though, but never been to Wrigley Field. Unfortunately I have to confess I've visited Comiskey Park for ALCS game against Toronto in one of my visit...

Have no plan to revisit at this moment, but if Fukudome does good job, I may consider...

by dragonsfanatic on Dec 23, 2007 12:24 AM CST up reply actions