As great as he has been, I wouldn’t be surprised if he is dissapointed in his start, only 3 homers, he seems to be striking out more recently, I think he has a better sense of the strike zone than the umpires which isn’t always an advantage, its pretty cool to think that as good as he has been he still can be even better.

When he’s interviewed post-game with the interpreter, usually the answers are short and a little guarded. This diary entery was a little lightweight but more personal.

I still don’t feel my normal self yet in the game, still feel a bit strange.

I wonder what that means… as in “it’s so weird to be here” or “something’s still not right”...

of Dome continues to rise.

Love that he feels, like the team feels, that a few runs down doesn’t mean anything. And here’s hoping his “normal self” is even better. Especially down the stretch.

And please do this again whenever you’re able.

your input is much appreciated. please consider translating every post dome makes and reporting on it here – your non-literal translation and context are infinitely more valuable than any internet translator

...why do we spell it Kosuke and he spells it Kohsuke? Shouldn’t the media adopt his spelling?

It sounds like Dome is enjoying being a Cub and everything that goes along with it. Keep giving these updates whenever you can.

Translation is much appreciated.

He’s still doesn’t feel his normal self yet? Wow, can’t wait to see when he does feel his normal self; should be incredible.

back in December.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Or should I say, “Domo arigato?”

I get goose pimples when I hear the FU-KU-DO-ME chant.

Go Cubs!

One of those people who does something so well and gracefully that it’s a pleasure to watch him.

And I’m sure he’s got a lot to get used to here. Much longer-distance travel, a completely different culture, and lots of stuff he probably just doesn’t quite get (a train in the outfield? sausage races? Harry Caray?). After he stops seeing everything for the first time, he’ll probably be more relaxed. His fundamentals are so good that he probably only has upside. Which is a really pleasant thought.

Thanks Dragonsfanatic!

Go Cubs Go!!!

please continue writing. I wish you would invite many other japanese people to this blog. I enjoy hearing other people’s views and thoughts. this is gonna go down as one of the best signings ever for a MILLION DIFFERENT REASONS. class act player who flat out does everything right.

Is Dome’s guy from Japan or is he a guy he picked up once he got to the States?

Nice work btw, great post.

that both Chicago play-by-play men, Len Kasper and Pat Hughes, both refer to Fukudome almost exclusively as “Kosuke”? “Fly ball to right, Kosuke makes the catch.” Next batter is Kosuke, who walked his time up.” Are they avoiding saying “Fukudome? Or trying to make this a kind of “Ichiro” thing?

(On the other hand, it seems like Santo and Brenly-and Piniella-say Fukudome most of the time.)

Thank u Dragon! I am a lifetime Cubs fan and also have a Japanese wife. I got married overseas while I was in the Marine Corps. She was hesistant to join me and my sons as Cubs fans until Fukudome’s arrival! She is still a big Matsui and Ichiro fan but I catch her reading Fukudome’s diary all the time. Anyway, thank u for the translation…can tell by ur info that u are the real deal. I also spent 4 years in Japan and we visit the in-laws once a year.

Funny thing…we used to live near Chatan-cho in Ginowan City years ago. My wife is from Furujima in Naha City. Anyway…arigato gozaimasu…yoroshiku onegai itashimasu. My romaji is not that great I know. My oldest son always gives me a hard time. I have 3 sons…all bilingual. And everyone in my house is a Cubs and Bears fan! It’s funny that my wife loves football…probably more than baseball.