Barb's Burblings

From Japan to Baltimore

There was a really good story in the Post today (on the front page!) about the relationship between Japan and American Major League Baseball. There was a lot about the more technically aspects--Japanese companies buy ad space in American stadiums, who broadcasts American games, etc. I've read a bit about Japanese baseball, although that was mostly in Dave Barry's book about Japan, so it mostly makes me think of very quiet stadiums and cheerleaders doing odd cheers. Maybe Brent can check out a game when he's over there in June. I'm tempted to read the book mentioned in that article.

But until then, I'll have to make do with predictions for the upcoming season. I recommend checking out Deadspin's preview for the Orioles. I don't agree with the author about the Bedard trade, but he sure is amusing:

Remember those inspirational 2007 Colorado Rockies? How they plodded through the summer around .500, then pulled together to put on a thrilling 14-1 finishing kick, sending them sprinting to the pennant?

Well, the Baltimore Orioles do that every year. Only backwards. Beyond plain categories of optimism and pessimism live those of us who see a sparkling half-glass of water and know for sure that the Orioles are eventually going to take a crap in it.

I can't help but be excited, though. FanFest is Saturday; Opening Day is Monday. Woo!