Field of Dreams

Off-Season Training

2012-01-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

Please pray for me as I continue training for the this years season. We start training again this week, and we are preparing for the March tournament. This year will bring some opportunities to play against Enagic and Okiden.

Please pray for more chances to build relationships with there guys. Pray that the Holy Spirit will move them to come to church and hear God's Word fully.

All for the glory of Jesus Christ!

The End of the Year

2011-11-30T18:37:00.000-08:00

Well it was a great run, but we were blanked 8-0 in some unfortunate circumstances due to bad weather. The game started from the bottom of the 3rd, with them up to bat with bases loaded, and leading 6-0. The umpires should have stopped the last game in the 2nd inning, maybe even before it started. Rain was inevitable for the entire day, yet, JABA umpires don't get paid if there's a rainout, so they try to push the game out. So the circumstances didn't help our chances.

Teruclinic got two runs in the bottom of the 7th to push the game to 8-0, which enables the game to end after the 7th inning in a tournament game. It was a great season for a first season for Aniya. I have no idea what's going to happen next year. The team has offered their desire in having me come back for next year as a starter. I'm just praying for these guys to come to church and hear the Gospel. Please continue to pray.

God bless you,

rob

Game On

2011-11-22T23:51:00.000-08:00

The 2nd game of the RBC Tournament with be held at Akama Stadium on Saturday the 26th. The game will start at 845 in the morning. This game is a continuation from the previous rain out. The game will leave off in the top of the 3rd inning with bases loaded and Teruclinic leading 6-0. During the previous game, the weather was so bad that the ground turned to mud. Even the 3rd and 1st base lines were without visibility. It was crazy! They got three runs off a foul ball, and two grounders that literally got stuck in the mud. In Japan, the rain has to be literally drenching people for them to actually stop the game. In this one, the mud had become so thick, that the pitcher was sliding all over the place when he landed to deliver the ball to home plate. Unfair? Well, God knows! He's in control. I'm looking for another cool miracle from Him! We'll have 7 clean innings to try and comeback in this one. Plenty of chances! I won't be pitching in this one.

Please pray that the Lord does a miracle, and He also heals my middle finger on my pitching hand. I've been having problems with cracks under my fingernail.

God is good! Jesus, lead us in victory I pray! In Jesus name, Amen!

God bless you,

Thanks for your prayers and support.

rob

Rained out!

2011-11-12T17:54:00.000-08:00

The game was rained out in the 3rd inning. Unfortunately, I left the game after the first inning with a crack in my middle finger nail. We were down 6-0 with bases loaded when the game was called. The game has been rescheduled for the 23th or the 26th. Please stay tuned! We still need a miracle from the Lord to come back in this one!

rob

Teruclinic game: RBC Tourny game 2

2011-11-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

This Saturday at 830am at Urasoe Stadium, we will play Teruclinic from the Naha area for the second round of the RBC tournament. Teruclinic was one of my former teams from back in 2008. I practiced with them for about 4 months before moving on to play for the Rangers in Wakayama. They are a great group of guys who love to play the game. Teruclinic is a sports medicine/rehabilitation center for sports injuries. They are also known for performing elbow and shoulder surgeries for baseball players on island. Many of the guys work for the company and play for the club team. They're a tough team to beat!

Well, I'll be the one getting the nod for this one. This is my third start all-time since living in Japan. Previously, I'm 0-2. Also, this might be my last game in Japan. Not sure what the future has for baseball, but it's always best o leave it up to the Lord! He is in control! This is why we are here in game 2, because of the Lord's blessing! What a miracle that we won the first game! I'm excited.

Please pray for the teams as I just continue to show them the light of Christ! Jesus is Lord! Trust in Him! He will never let you down!

Amen!

All for Jesus!

rob

We Won!

2011-10-30T23:32:00.000-07:00

I still cant believe it! We defeated Okikoku 3-2 in the first game of the RBC tournament at Cellular Stadium in Naha. Our pitcher Mitsuru pitched a complete game, giving up only 2 runs on 6 hits. The game was tied 2-2 in th bottom of the 9th, when our led-off hitter stroked a triple over the left fielders head. This lead to the next two batters being intentionally walked to load the bases with no outs and the winning run only 90 feet away. If we didn't score, I was gong to come into the game in the top of the 10th. I threw 120 pitches from the 2nd inning to the 9th. Our pitcher just settled down after allowing 2 runs in the first inning and our team got their first hit in the bottom of the 8th. Interesting! A sacrifice fly allowed the runner to score and for us to secure the victory.

All glory to God! It was a miracle indeed! I was super blessed!

Next game will be at Urasoe Baseball Stadium where the Yakult Swallows have spring training. I will start the game against TeruClinic.

Game starts at 830.

Thank you for your prayers and support!

God bless,

rob

RBC Tournament

2011-10-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

This is our first and last tournament of the year. The game will be held at the Au Cellular Stadium in Naha on Saturday the 29th. Our game starts at 130 vs Okinawa International University. If we win this game, we will play the winner between Teruclinic and Bigkaihatsu next Saturday Nov. 5th. If we win that game, then we will play in the finals versus Okiden or Enagic. At this point, it will be an absolutely miracle of God for us to win it all. We have so many holes in our team, yet, we have such great chemistry as a whole. Coming into this tournament, we are the lowest ranking team in Okinawa. I've been praying for the impossible to become possible, all for the glory of God! It will be a fun time otherwise. If you have time, please come out and cheer us on.

God bless you and please pray that these guys see Jesus through baseball!!!

rob

Ryukyu University Game

2011-10-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Well, the Okidai game was called because of the rain. This Saturday will be our last practice game before the start of the tournament. The game will be played at the Ryudai field in Ginowan. Game starts at 1.

God bless,

rob

Okidai Game

2011-10-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

We have a game today versus Okidai(Okinawa University), if the weather holds up. It's been pretty rainy out here that last few days. Also, on the 29th, the RBC tournament will be held at the new Au Cellular Stadium in Naha. This is the home to the Yomiuri Giants of the NPB during spring training. First game: Okinawa International University.

Praise the Lord! I'm excited! More post to come before them.

rob

The Okinawan baseball Magazine

2011-10-01T03:35:00.000-07:00

Our team was featured in the Okinawa Magazine this month, as a new pick-up team added to the league. The pictures are quite hilarious, considering the fact that none of us had our original uniforms when the pictures were taken in June, only these uniforms from the previous team. I've had the opportunity to invite these guys to church. Some of the players are married with kids. Please pray that the Lord stirs their hearts to come to church on a Sunday morning or Wednesday night!

Praise the Lord for what He's doing through baseball.

God bless,

rob

Meio University Game Results

2011-09-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

We lost our game to Meio University on Saturday the 24th. Meio University was the Okinawan University champions last season. This year, they have some former Konan High School players who won the High School championship for all of Japan(Koshien). The 3,4&5 hitters were pretty tough outs. I was able to get through 6 innings, and not return in the 7th, down 3-2. Our defense went a little flat after that, and the pitching gave up four more runs. The final score was 8-2. The final score never really tells the story, but the guys hung in there, against a team who practices together daily. We will probably see them in the tournament. I threw exactly 100 pitches.

Here's a short clip that was taken during the game. Please pray for the guys on the baseball team. Pray that the Lord speaks to their hearts.

Amen.

God bless you,

rob

Meio University Game

2011-09-17T05:46:00.000-07:00

On the 24th on Saturday, we will be playing the University of Meio from Nago. The game will be held at Kadena Stadium starting at 2 o'clock. Please come out if you have some time and would like to check out a Japanese style baseball game.

Please continue to pray for all the baseball players throughout Japan. Everywhere you look, there is always a kid wearing a uniform, either walking to practice, or walking home from practice. Baseball is huge in Japan. It's especially big here in Okinawa.

Pray that they may know Jesus through baseball!!

God bless.

rob

A step closer

2011-09-12T00:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a short clip of one of the innings during a practice game on Saturday.

Enjoy the Japanese voices in the background.

God bless,

rob

Ehime Mandarin Pirates Coaching Staff

2011-09-11T23:40:00.001-07:00

It's not everyday that you get the opportunity to show your stuff to a professional baseball coaching staff. This is a picture of the head coach, Hoshino-san(former player and one of the coaches for the Rakuten Golden Eagles), pitching coach(former Yakult Swallows pitcher), and the head of the players development.

It was cool just meeting these guys and having the opportunity to just be there. This was part of Rika and my trip to visit family in Ehime. We were able to get in contact with them and ask them for a chance to workout with them.

God bless,

rob

First game of the year

2011-08-20T02:50:00.000-07:00

We lost the first game of the season 8-3. Okinawa International University is the strongest University in Okinawa. They had a lot of well timely hits. Basically 2 doubles and the rest singles. I pitched 4 innings. 3 scoreless until the 3rd. Two errors cost us 2 runs, yet they capitalized and scored 6 runs in the third. My control was right on, and I only walked one batter. I put too many pitches right in the zone. My max was 139km(86 mph).

This was the first time I'd pitched to live batters in a game in one full year. I was blessed with the ability to throw strikes. That was the key. Next outing, I'll be mixing in more off-speed pitches. Pitching is all about destroying timing. I learn that for my former coach Don Sneddon at Santa Ana College.

God is in control. We have a big double header coming up at Akama Stadium in Onna-Son on September 24th.

Praise the Lord! He is faithful!

rob

Okikoku Practice Game

2011-08-12T02:37:00.000-07:00

We have our first game for Aniya on Saturday the 20th at 9 am versus Okinawa International University.

I was blessed to get the nod as the starting pitcher. I haven't pitched against a hitter in a live game since last September.

May the Lord be glorified through baseball!

Pitching in Ehime

2011-07-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

When my wife and I were in Ehime, we were able to visit with an independent pro team called the Ehime Mandarin Pirates. I was able to talk to them about a workout before I left just to see what the team was like. I was so blessed. They allowed me to throw a short bullpen. Afterward, we talked with the manager and a few of the coaches. It was a good opportunity to show my pitching and hear how they run the team.

A few of the guys on the team remembered me from my days playing for the Rangers in Wakayama.

God is good. Pray for the players and staff of the Mandarin Pirates. In Jesus' Name!

rob

Aniya Tryout

2011-05-19T20:39:00.001-07:00

Nishihara Marine City Aniya is holding a tryout on Saturday May 28th. This was the flyer that the manager gave to us guys to give to local shops for advertisement. Also, there was an ad last week in the Ryuku Shimpo newspaper about the new coaching staff and tryout. I won't be trying out for this one. The team had invited me to join the team, which is a blessing! Prayerfully, the Lord will bring some new guys He wants to minister to. I will be going to the tryout after work to check out what's going on. Looking forward to a great season with a new team!

God bless you!

rob

Nishihara Marine City Aniya

2011-05-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

Recently, I received an e-mail from one of my baseball contacts about potentially training together. Justin Krause, a military dependent and semi-pro baseball player here in Okinawa, started working out with me every Thursday and Saturday at 630 in the morning over at Okinawa International University. It's great to see someone with a lot of zeal to play the game of baseball! Justin is only 20 years old. He introduced me back to my old team, Aniya. Aniya baseball now has a new sponsor from a golf company located in the heart of Nishihara. Nishihara is very close to Ginowan, which makes traveling easy for me. So, I started working out with the guys every Tuesday and Thursday night. Here we are at the indoor training facility in Nishihara City.

Please continue to pray for what the Lord wants to do. There are a few American guys on this team, and I believe the Lord wants to speak to their hearts. It's great being with the Japanese ball players again! These guys are always cheerful! I'm praying the Lord will give them true everlasting cheer.

Please pray for Nishihara Marine City Aniya players and coaches!

God bless,

In His timing,

rob

Uncle Rico?

2011-02-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

So I have become an Uncle Rico! Well, I've always been an Uncle Rico. If you are familiar with the Napoleon Dynamite movie, you would remember the story of his Uncle Rico throwing footballs by himself, and filming it at the same time. There's a University baseball field near my house. Early in the mornings, a few years back, I would go there a throw off a mound into a back screen. I had nobody to play catch with, and I still don't, so I throw a bucket off balls off a mound. Afterwards, I do plenty of sprints and agility workouts. It's actually a great workout and a wonderful time spending with the Lord! I don't know what the future holds for baseball, but I definitely have the desire to play again. I'm just keeping fresh and staying ready for that call, if the Lord wills!

Here is a little video of my mechanics. Please drop me a message. If you know a lot about pitching, give me some advice and what I might be doing wrong in my delivery. I would be blessed to hear from you!

Thanks for checking out this field of dreams! Hope you had a good laugh at my Uncle Rico impersonation!

God bless,

rob

Beginning of the End?

2011-01-17T18:34:00.000-08:00

The tryout for Enagic went well. I threw a 30 pitch bullpen as the manager watched. I felt pretty good, but the Lord just has different plans. The manager informed me that they were going to do an overall assessment of my pitching performance, and then give me a heads up that following Friday. For two days I sought the Lord for His will in this situation. Did the Lord want me to play for Enagic this year? Does He want me to play for another team? Has the door of playing baseball in Okinawa shut? Those were the many things I was praying and seeking after the Lord about. That following Friday, I received the answer I knew was coming. Enagic had just informed me that there were too many pitchers, and too many of them were years younger than myself. I won't be playing for Enagic anymore. The last two years have been such a great ride! God has really blessed me with the opportunity to play baseball for a company team, and not work for the company. I just played baseball, and was paid to play! Exciting! We'll see what will happen next. There are no other company teams here in Okinawa that I could play for, but, some club teams have shown interest. Please pray as the Lord leads. I still have such a desire to share Christ with the baseball players in Japan while I still can! Soon, my body won't let me physically play anymore! I've been seeing the signs of those physical ailments, but, they're not completely here yet!

Prayerfully, the Lord will direct me into another uniform, and give me another group of guys to share His love with! Praise the Lord!

Thanks for tuning in again! Be blessed! In His Name!

rob #30(#44)

2010-12-21T18:05:00.000-08:00

Next year on January the 12th, I have a one day tryout with Enagic to see if I'll be returning for the 2011 season. Please keep the tryout in your prayers as the Lord leads and guides next season! Enagic released 15 players upon arrival of 10 new upcoming players. I was the last player to be released and so they wanted to give me another look. The season starts the 11th. So hopefully I'll be able to start again right where I left off and not miss a beat. Please stay updated as I will reveal the results soon after the tryout! God bless you!

rob

Another year in the books

2010-11-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

Once again the season has come to an end. It was a season of high's and low's for me. I played the game like a roller-coaster. At times I pitched above my own game, and also as if I looked like I didn't belong! This is all part of the game! This year, unlike others past, I have learned so much about my team. I learned about the type of life they live here in Okinawa. The Japanese are so much different than Americans. The way they think and go about things are so much different then the way I do it! Especially in the game of baseball. I also do the best I can to come to their level, not expecting them to come to where I'm at. For if I desire to share Christ with them effectively, I must become like them culturally. Adapt to the Okinawan/Japanese culture. It's been so difficult! My Americanism is a fixture I can't seem to turn off. Well, by the grace of God I hope to continue on next season. Please pray for me as I take on another season at the age of 28!

Jesus is the reason I still play! Praise the Lord! God willing, see you next season! I'll be there!

In Christ,

rob

Big Kai Hatsu Game

2010-09-09T00:37:00.001-07:00

Today we played one of the other company teams here on island. A housing company called Bigkaihatsu located down in Naha city. We eventually one the game 10-5. I came into to pitch with bases loaded and two outs in the top of the 6th. I was blessed to have struck out the next batter on four pitches. I threw the top of the 7th giving up 1 run on 2 hits. The first pitch was knocked into right center for a triple! The first triple I have ever given up in live play! 大丈夫! I went on to retire the next guy, but not before a bloop single scored the run. I finished with 1.1 innings pitched, 2 hits, and 2 k's. God really gave me some great strength and good control! The pitch of the triple I gave up was recorded at 143km(89) on the gun! I haven't thrown that hard since I was 21 in college. The Lord continues to do His work on the field. Please pray for the guys that they would come to know JESUS!

Okinawa Electric Company 沖縄電気

2010-08-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we play the Okinawa Electric Company for a practice game before the Nagasaki Tournament. Okiden is the best team in Okinawa! They're like the Yankees of Okinawa and maybe the NY Mets of Japan. I'll be pitching some relief tomorrow. May the Lord be glorified through baseball. If all goes well, I'll gain a roster spot for Nagasaki. I'm looking forward to tomorrow and all God has in store! It's going to be great! God bless you!

rob

Air Force Game Okinawa

2010-08-01T00:03:00.000-07:00

We had a friendly game versus the Air Force team of Okinawa. They are a fairly new team, so it was a new experience playing against Americans. It's been a long time since I've heard English out on the field. W e defeated them 28-3! Quite a blow-out. I was blessed to be able to start the game. I gave up 2 runs in 3 innings, 2 walks and 6 k's.

Stay Tuned!

2010-07-29T20:02:00.000-07:00

We have been officially ranked as one of the top teams in Okinawa. So now, there are no tournament games in Okinawa. We only have meaningful games in mainland Japan. Please continue to pray that these guys come to know Jesus! God has opened the doors for some one on one English classes with some of the guys. Hopefully I can get some more pics up of the upcoming practice games. We have a game tomorrow versus the Air Force team. Rain has been delaying a lot of practice and games for the past week.

God bless you all and please stay tuned!!!

Honda Practice Field

2010-06-19T06:26:00.000-07:00

It was an honor to be able to practice at the Honda facility in Kumamoto. Thus far, our team has practiced on both the Nissan and Honda practice fields. It's really cool seeing a field dedicated for baseball only created directly by the company and mainly for the company team. Maybe one day we'll have an Enagic practice field? Lord willing!

Honda Kumamoto Game

2010-06-19T06:22:00.000-07:00

We played Honda Kumamoto for our second practice game before the start of the tournament. Unfortunately, we were handed a 9-1 loss. Honda is a top team in Japan! They finished second in last years tournament losing to Mittsubishi Juko of Nagasaki.

Mittsubishi Nagasaki Game

2010-06-19T06:15:00.000-07:00

We had a practice game against Mittsubishi Juko of Nagasaki on Tuesday. It was quite a long 3 hour drive up from Kumamoto. This stadium is called the Big N. This is wear the Softbank Hawks have their extended spring training. The game ended in a 3-3 tie. We were actually up 3-2 going into the 9th! Mittsubishi Juko won last years tournment against Honda Kumamoto.

Enagic Bible Study

2010-06-19T06:07:00.000-07:00

We've been having the Bible study for about a few weeks now at the Enagic players dorm. This was the second study we had. Pastor Tim from Nago came down to help translate after Hakugaijin practice. Well, we didn't end up having the study because the guys ended up all going out for dinner. So, Tim and I were invited into one of the guys rooms to hang out and chat. It was a great opportunity to share our faith and our lives with these guys. Also, very interesting and uncommon, was to see the pitching coach was hanging out at the dorm with a few of the guys. He asked Tim and I so many questions about why we don't go out and party every night. Times like these are great since the guys get to see our character as Christians on and off the field. Please continue to pray for the Bible study that God would be the center!

Inside AU Cellular Stadium in Naha

2010-06-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

This was our final practice game before heading to Kumamoto. We defeated Big Kaihatsu 4-3. Here are a few pictures of the inside of the new stadium down in Naha. It's brand new, so it's just immaculate!

Important Meeting

2010-05-31T01:13:00.001-07:00

Today we had an important meeting leading up to the big tournament in Kyushu. The main boss (Mr. Oshiro) came out and congratulated the team along with achievement awards for the our manager and a few of the guys in charge of Enagic sports system. It was pretty tiring standing at the first meeting for about 40 minutes. Our second meeting was held at the players dorm and call center. This building is pretty sweet and is all manufactured distinctively for Enagic. This week is going to be pretty tough. I was told I'm right on the borderline to get into the game. I'll be the fourth pitcher for the tournament if I can maintain consistent outings out on the mound. We have a scrimmage game between ourselves on Thursday and then 2 practice games verses Bigkaihatsu on the 8th and the 10th at Cellular Stadium in Naha. This is it! Preparing for the big tournament as the number one seed. When we get to Kumamoto, we'll have two important practice games against Honda, and Mitsubishi. Looking forward to the challenge! Please pray for the Bible study this week. John 1:6-34. God bless!

Company Team Magazine

2010-05-29T00:13:00.000-07:00

The other day after lunch, a few of the guys at the D-house and myself, went to local book store to check out the magazines. There was this company baseball issue with all the big companies in it. I thought I would check it out to see who was in it, and there we were, Enagic baseball team.

Go ahead and check my profile if you could read the small print or the Japanese. Awesome! Good stuff! Praise the Lord!

Itoman Mayor appreciation night

2010-05-29T00:08:00.000-07:00

On Thursday night, out team was invited by the Itoman Mayor for a BBQ at Bibi beach in Itoman City. There was a lot of food along with many Itoman city officials giving encouraging speeches. We dawned our uniforms and introduced ourselves individually those who came. It was great being with the team and meeting new people.

On our way to Kyushu!

2010-05-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

In the second game of the 81 inner city company tournament, Enagic defeated the Okinawa Electric Company in the second game of the tournament. The final score was 10-5. This ends Okiden's streak of 50 years of dominance. Meaning, this is the first time they did not qualify for this trip. As of now, Enagic is ranked the number 1 seed in Okinawa! Pretty exciting! Here are some newspaper clippings from the victory. If you look real hard, you can see I stick out like a sore thumb! It was a blessing! Looking forward to what the Lord has in store for this team!

Au Cellular Field

2010-05-14T23:09:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, we had a game at the Au Cellular Field in Naha. This is where the Yomiuri Giants of the Nippon Professional Baseball League have their spring training. The stadium is brand new. We played BigKaihastsu, who is a local housing agency club team. We defeated them 4-1. This game comes prior to our tournament this weekend which will be held here at this stadium in Naha.

The first Bible study started later that night at the Enagic dorm. I will be posting those pics in a few weeks. 10 players came and heard the Gospel. We went over the Bible as history and started in the book of John. Please continue to pray for the hearts of these guys! I was was so blessed and blown away by the outcome. Next study is in two weeks and hopefully the guys will come week in and week out! God bless you!

robロバート

Ginowan Dome

2010-05-02T23:41:00.001-07:00

It's Golden week this week, so, we had an indoor practice at the Ginowan Dome where the Yokohama Baystars have their spring training camp. It was a little of a lethargic day since it was monday. We went over some sign play with runners on base and threw some bullpens outside where the mounds are located. Blessed to be there! Tomorrow is another big game right here in Ginowan. God bless you!

Back in the Game

2010-05-02T23:26:00.000-07:00

8thOn Saturday I was given the opportunity to throw in a practice game up in Ginoza. We played a double header against Meio University from Nago and Okidai from the Shuri area. Tim, Ayu, and Masaki came for their second Enagic baseball game at Ginoza Stadium. It was great to talk with them after the game. I got the call for the 7th inning in the first game against Meio. These guys are the top college team in Okinawa. The first three guys I faced, pop fly to third, ground out to 2nd, and another pop fly to third. It felt pretty good retiring the side in order. The pitching coach gave me the thumbs up to go again in the 8th. I faced the top of the order. 2 k's and a fly out to right. 6 up, 6 down. Praise the Lord. I was throwing consistently in the mid to upper eighties and feeling blessed. By God's grace I was given this opportunity to be back into the game. We're starting the baseball Bible study in 2 weeks. Please pray that these guys come to hear the Word of God and that they receive His free gift of eternal life. Yes, that's right, it's free! また、神様感謝します！！！

My Dad

2010-04-21T19:08:00.001-07:00

These are some pics of us at the Dodger game. My dad has always been a big Dodger fan. It has probably been the reason why I grew up as Dodger fan because of the love that my father had for them. We were both very much into the game despite the homerun not coming until the 8th inning. Good times. Please pray for my family. That they would come to know Jesus.

Dodger Game

2010-04-21T19:03:00.001-07:00

On the last day in LA, I went to the Dodger Game w/ my father and his wife(Cheryl). Awesome! Manny hit a bomb in the bottom of the ninth and "Iron Man" Broxton closed out the Giants 2-1. We had some sweet seats. The weather was perfect. And the Lakers won their first playoff game. It was a good day in LA despite the craziness of the Dodger fans! My good buddy Steven met us after the game in the parking lot for some pictures.

California

2010-04-21T18:50:00.000-07:00

I returned to California for about two weeks to spend time with family and friends. I decided to not really play any baseball activities whatsoever just to rest nagging injuries. Yet, my good Christian bro, Andy Hennebelle, invited me down to the Ontario Inland Sports Center to throw a short bullpen and check out his facility. This place was incredible! It was a full workout facility w/ weights, batting cages, bullpen, and turf to work on functional training and speed. There were a few minor league guys who showed up for training and rehab while I was there. Please pray for Andy as he continues to do what he loves in training athlete's to excel to their fullest. I had the privilege of playing high school baseball w/ Andy and in other men's league around California. He has a great mind for the game and understand a lot of how the body works in sports. God bless you Andy! Thanks for the opportunity.

Okiden Tourney Style

2010-03-23T03:14:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord! We were able to play Okiden! Okiden is the Okinawan Electric Company. They are the best company team in Japan as of now. We lost the game 8-1 against their ace pitcher. It was an extra blessing because I got the call the night before that I would be suiting up for this one. God gave me favor in allowing me to be there. I didn't get the chance to pitch, but it was real fun being in the uniform and waiting for the call to warm up.

Start of the Tournament

2010-03-19T23:14:00.001-07:00

Today was the start of our first tournament of the year. We were able to take down Ryuku University 8-2 starting w/ a fifth inning 2 run home run to left field. These were just a few of the pictures taken from the game. As you can see, I was in the stands for this one. I didn't get the call to pitch in this tournament just due to some kinks in my mechanics. There were about 15 guys who didn't dress out for the game. Not a problem though! Realizing your mistakes in pitching just makes you a better player. I figured out through lower velocity, a tired arm, and poor control, that my lower body mechanics needed a major adjustment. I believe the Lord is just giving me this time to work on those things. I'm looking forward to a big comeback! Please pray for me that I would keep my focus in bringing the Gospel to the table for these guys! God has a bigger reason for me being on this team. Amen.

The Owner of Enagic's Birthday

2010-03-19T22:58:00.000-07:00

Wednesday evening, we were invited to celebrate the Owner of Enagic's birthday. Mr. Oshiro turned 69 years young! I didn't know this, but Mr. Oshiro started the company from Okinawa. He then moved on to mainland Japan and into the United States along w/ shops in Taiwan, Hong Kong, Mexico, Europe and Germany. I was pretty shocked that he was the sole owner of the chain. The celebration was held at Busena Resort close to Nago where President Clinton stayed during his time here while the G8 Summit was in Okinawa. There were actually many Americans who were invited along w/ employees from Taiwan, China, and Europe. The interesting thing was the fact that only about 20 of the top distributer's from Enagic were invited. Tokito and myself were invited by the manager Hirayama san.

We were able to talk to Hirayama san about starting a team Bible study to reach out to the guys for Christ. He said that it would be great, but, the best part was that Enagic's team dorm apartment will be moved to Ginowan next month. He said we could use the downstairs community rooms to hold the study. We both were blown away! God brought it so close to us here in Ginowan. Please pray as we step out in faith to share the love of Christ to a dying people. Those who don't know Him!

End of Spring

2010-03-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday was our last game of spring before the start of the season. We played against the housing company team Big Kaihatsu. I actually didn't play in this game, but I took a few pics of what the baseball life is like here in Okinawa. I didn't fare too well this spring in my only 2 outings, yet, I learned a few important things for my mechanics. I will not be pitching in the tournament for march. This is ok! There's a few things the Lord wants to teach me about baseball and life. He's under control!

Spring Training Opening Game

2010-02-28T23:29:00.001-08:00

Today was our first game of the spring season. It was great being back in competition. We played up in Ginoza where the Hanshin Tigers have their spring camp in the month of February. Today they returned home, so, we were able to take the field. We lost 6-3 because of a couple of rough innings. I was blessed to throw the 8th inning. I gave up one single, a strikeout, and a ground ball double-play to end the inning. Tim and Ayu also came out w/ little Masaki to watch the game. Praise the Lord! God is good!

Right Around the Corner

2010-02-22T21:43:00.000-08:00

Lately, it has been raining cats and dogs! Our regular field has been too wet to practice on, and so, we've been training down at the beach and at the Itoman city office. Our trainer, Hama san, has returned to mainland. I was a little sad to see him go since he's such a great guy, but, a little happy since the training load just got a little lighter! We'll be headed back into scrimmage games this Thursday and Friday. Our first game is on Monday the 1st at Ginoza stadium where the Hanshin Tigers have their spring camp. May God be glorified always through the game of baseball! God bless you!

Spring Camp Begins

2010-02-09T03:26:00.001-08:00

Our spring camp has started! Today, we met at the stadium and took the Enagic bus down to our new practice facility for spring training. These are just a few pictures of our scrimmage game we had this morning. Everyday, we will be having seat batting scrimmage games to determine roster positions. It's a little hard to believe, but our team is carrying 16 pitchers this year. There will be no cuts, yet, only 8 guys will be able to be on the active roster. This means that 8 guys will be inactive bench players for the beginning of the season. It's all in the Lord's Hands! I'm looking forward to some real good competition. So far, these guys have come out to play! Please continue to pray for the Lord to stir up the hearts of these baseball players towards Him.

WBC Japan

2010-02-09T03:18:00.000-08:00

This is Seiichi Uchikawa from the Yokohama Baystars. He played on the Japanese World Baseball Classic championship team. He is real famous in Japan. Last Tuesday night he was signing plenty of autograph's and meeting fans at the Baystars camp opening ceremony. I was blessed to be in attendance.

The Yokohama Baystars

2010-02-04T01:44:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday night, I was invited along w/ a few guys on the team to attend the Yokohama Baystars opening ceremony for spring training here in Okinawa. Every February, pro teams from mainland Japan come to Okinawa for training camp because of the warm weather. We were able to watch the ceremony as the players came out onto the stage at the ANA hotel in Ginowan. Afterwards, there was food and time to meet the players and take pictures. The top picture is a picture of a few of the Enagic guys. The two pictures in the center are of the few Americans the Baystars have signed to play here in Japan. The second picture from the bottom is former major league pitcher Chris Bootcheck who played for the Los Angeles Angels and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He had asked me what brought me to Japan and I was able to share about what God is doing here in Okinawa. He then shared with me that he was also a Christian and did a lot of ministry back in the states with other Christians players around the majors. He mentioned that he had a lot of free time while he's here and was interested in coming to church. His field is only 10 minutes away for the Calvary Ginowan. Please pray for our brother that he would be able to witness to the Japanese players while being apart of the team. God is good and working through His people!!

The Week of Pain

2010-01-21T17:10:00.000-08:00

This week, we were able to move back into the stadium down in Itoman for morning practice. Practice was normal as usually for the first couple days. Hamada san, our trainer from mainland, was down in Okinawa for only a few days. He put together a pretty tough running menu for all the players. Like always, the pitchers and hitters each trained in separate groups. The running was pretty intense! A lot of sprints in a long period of time. Afterwards, we finished the day doing a variety of ground exercises that tested out your core strength. It's more than just physical strength. It's a struggle between mind and body! The body wants to give up first because it's so tired, but, the mind must tell the body to press on. It's the same thing in ministry. The body wants to quit because of all the hardships involved in daily ministry and all the service required to maintain stability. If your mind is weak, you will give in to the flesh and quit so easily. 1 Corinthians 9:24; Hebrews 12:1.

Bus Advertisement?

2010-01-16T03:54:00.001-08:00

The other day when I was on my way to practice, one of the Okinawan buses pulled out in front of me. To my amazement, there was an advertisement for Enagic water. So while driving, I tried to take the best picture that I could. Well, it didn't turn out so well, but I was pretty excited to see the team company on the back of a bus. The Lord was just reminding me to keep ministering to these guys faithfully.

Training begins

2010-01-12T19:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday began the official start of training. Any kind of training was cancelled early in the morning due to the rain. Instead, we had an opening meeting about the team structure for the upcoming season. Enagic will not release any players, yet, they will start the games off this year with starting players and bench players. This is because of the 6 new incoming players. Out of all 6 new players, 4 of them are pitchers. This means that only half the pitchers will be eligible to pitch during games. Only 8 guys will be on the starting roster and will be eligible to come into games in relief. Well, the only way to make the top eight would be to train hard and take it one step at a time. Either way, being here is completely of the Lord.

Today's practice went well. It was extremely cold! The winter months are fairly short here in Okinawa, since the weather is periodically cold and warm. February will be a slow training month, since our spring training games don't start until march. Thanks for tuning in and I hope you look forward to see what the Lord has in store here at robs field of dreams! God bless u!

Shinnenkai

2010-01-04T17:23:00.001-08:00

Yesterday afternoon into the evening, Enagic company had their Shinnenkai. This is the opening celebration to bring in the new year. Many of the big wigs of the company including the owner, gave opening statements and speeches about the upcoming goal for the company this year. There are 3 departments involved in the company: The Kangen Sui(main water business department), The Sola technical school department, and the baseball department. Many of the managers from other international stores in Beijing, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Australia, Europe and from mainland Japan attended as well. I was blessed to be able to give an introduction of myself and a speech later on in the night. It was just quite interesting being there for my first time in any type of business event. I was able to share my faith and why I'm here in Okinawa. It was a wonderful start to the new baseball season and what the Lord desires to do through Enagic baseball. God bless you! 2010.

Pictured below is my coach. He is a Christian, and he is a big part in how the Lord allowed me to be part of the team. Please pray for him. His name is Hiruyama san. When talking to the guys during the baseball season, he always used a Christian perspective when speaking about game related situations. It was awesome!

Another year for the ages!

2009-12-28T17:55:00.000-08:00

The year s officially coming to an end. It's been quite a year, with many ups and downs in the game of baseball. The beginning of this year started quite surprisingly with the chance to play professional baseball. it seemed to derail a bit upon my returning back to Okinawa after 3 months of pro ball in Wakayama. The Lord poured out his grace by allowing me to join a new company here in Okinawa after only being back for 3 months. I wasn't sure what the Lord had in store last year about this time, but it was definitely a step of faith. Our lives as Christian should always be a step of faith into the unknown. The Creator in whom we serve has everything under control and in His hands. For those of you who tune in, thank you for your love and prayers! Continue to pray with me as we seek to reach the baseball players in Okinawa and Japan for Christ. I'm looking forward to a new year and a new season in my life. May the Lord go before us in everything we endeavor for His sake! あけましておめでとうございます！

2009-12-21T19:08:00.000-08:00

Every evening, all the players meet up at Sola Technical school to hit the weights. The gym is a very nice facility, and the school is fairly new in existence. Enagic company had joined with the school upon arriving in Okinawa last year. A few of the younger guys actually go to school here. It serves as a school of trade. Well, the baseball starts up again in mid-January, which means, a lot of running and getting in shape for the actual season which begins in March. I'm getting too anxious. May the Lord go before us this upcoming season. May He be glorified!

Some Photos

2009-12-13T17:47:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been searching for a few photos from my days up in Wakayama. I found 2 pics from spring training and from our media day. Hope you enjoy these! I stick out like sore thumb! God bless you! 主の祝福がありますように！

Osaka Dome

2009-11-29T23:52:00.000-08:00

This is a video of the opening game for the season. After the Japanese anthem, you can see me wearing the number 44 uniform lined up with the Rangers.

Kishu Rangers

2009-11-28T00:13:00.000-08:00

Found this on youtube from the Kishu Ranger days!

End of the Year

2009-11-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

The baseball season is officially over! It's been a wonderful 4 months of being with the team. Our last game was played at the Chatan stadium in Mihama. We fell to Meio University a mist the wind and rain 10-6. It's been a long season for all these guys and I believe everyone just ran out of gas!

Training continues starting next week, but baseball operations are over. We'll see what's going to happen next as the field of dreams continues. Stay tuned! Stay blessed!

robby

Fukuoka

2009-11-05T23:42:00.000-08:00

In the beginning of this month, we headed to Fukuoka for a week long tournament. It was baseball and everyday hotel living for the entire week. When we first arrived, the very next day we had a game against the top University in Fukuoka. We lost in the bottom of the 9th 5-4! it was just a practice game to prepare for the tournament. The tournament consisted of about 5 games maximum with losing 2 games and you're out. So it was a double elimination tourny. To make things brief, we lost the first game 8-1 to a technical college team before going on to upset Nissan in the second game. It was quite incredible to have the chance to play Nissan in their last game as a company team and beat them. Nissan has shut down all baseball operations as of November.

The final game for us was against Mittsubishi, who shut us down 13-0. I was blessed to throw a few innings here and there. The first full tourny I was able to participate in was quite interesting. Just another day of life playing ball in Japan while sharing the good News of Jesus Christ. Thank you for continuing to pray for the work God is doing through baseball! Amen.

Okiden Defeated!

2009-10-11T04:06:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally beat Okiden! The final score was 7-3! Okiden is the Okinawan Electric Comapany, and by reputation, the top team in Okinawa. Every year, Okiden takes the top high school players from around Okinawa to compete in company tournaments around Japan. Although it was a practice game, this was the first time Enagic as a team has beaten Okiden, and it's the first time in over a year that Okiden has lost to an Okinawan team. The management was impressed since one of their primary goals was to defeat Okiden in any kind of circumstance. I was extremely blessed to be part of the destruction, throwing 2 scoreless innings in the 6th and 7th.

Now we will be headed to Fukuoka for the 36th annual yakyu senchiken tournament(Company baseball tournament). Please stay tuned!! Blessings from the Lord!

Robby

The New Uni is Finally Here!

2009-08-14T21:19:00.000-07:00

I finally recieved my full uniform yesterday. We have two uniform styles; blue with white lettering(pictured above) and all white with blue lettering(not pictured). #30 was the new number of choice. Thanks to my sister, Tiffany, who e-mailed me about having the number 30 in relation to her birthday on the 30th of April. I thought that was a great idea to be able to think of my sister everytime I wear my jersey. Love you Tiffy!

Praise the Lord I was blessed to have my last name on my jersey for the first time. Thanks also to Enagic for allowing me to be a part of the team. Please continue to pray for the team and also for all the baseball players here in Okinawa and also throughout Japan. May they come to know about Jesus as their Lord and Savior!

May all come to know about God's saving grace!! Amen!

God bless you all and look forward to some sweet action coming up!

robert

Another Step

2009-07-28T01:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday after church, we had an afternoon game in my hometown of Ginowan down at Okinawa International College. It was more of a practice game leading up to the All-Okinawa tournament in late August. It was such a blessing since church family all came to cheer us on. We ended up winning the game by a large final of 14-7. I was called in the bottom of the 7th to retire the final batter. I then went on to pitch the last 2 innings. I gave up 1 run, 2 hits, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts, in 2 1/3 innings. I was able to get my first save of my career, and a max speed of 140km.

The story of the day was not even about the win...Nor was it about my pitching...It was definitely the 25 or more Japanese and Americans from the church who came out to root on Enagic! After the game, some of the guys and gals took some pics with the coaches. Shuta, our equipment manager, then brought out a stack of hats and passed them out to everyone. Everyone got some sweet gear, and the kids got a sweet memory. It was a great witness to the players, coaches, and the community for most of the church to come out to the game. I hope my coach was encouraged as a Christian and ministered by them in the name of Jesus.

Only the Lord knows what's going to happen next! Thanks to everyone who came and blessed me while I was sweating all over the place! God bless you!! robby

Double Play

2009-07-22T00:37:00.000-07:00

back in the game

2009-07-22T00:24:00.000-07:00

I had the opportuntiy to pitch in my first game since coming back from Wakayama. I threw 2 innings, (4th and 5th) gave up 2 runs, (1 unearned) along with 2 singles, 4 walks, and 4 strikeouts. I wasn't feeling up to maximum power since I only topped out at 135km (84mph). My location was probably at it's best, except for some close calls from the umpires. All in all, I was just so blessed to be there with the guys on the field and having the chance to compete again! Please pray for the guys on the team. It's all about what God wants to do using this team. The manager is a Christian Japanese man, which is very unusual here in Okinawa. God has given me favor to be on this team, and I just desire to pitch for His glory as long as He allows me to play! God bless u!

robby

Back on the Field

2009-07-11T23:48:00.000-07:00

I started practicing with the team on July 1st. I've been practicing at my own pace just trying to get back into baseball condition. Wow is it hot. I practice every morning monday through friday from 9-1. The stadium is located down in Itoman city in Nishizaki Town. It's about 15 minutes south from Naha airport. Please keep me in your prayers as I have developed a real heart for the Itoman area and I'm hoping to eventually move down there in the near future. Ultimately these guys need the Lord Jesus in their lives. May the Lord use my talents in baseball to reach out to these guys and the people in Itoman. God speed!!

Comeback?

2009-06-03T21:34:00.000-07:00

Could this be a comeback? A company team called "Energic" has offered me a chance to make a comeback to somewhat professional baseball yet I will be playing for a company team. Well, it's something to definitely keep in prayer. I was invited for a tryout yesterday and was able to meet other players who played pro up in mainland also. The Manager also told us that he also was a christian and became very interested in coming to the Calvary in Ginowan. It was a wildly blessed day, especially hearing about the managers profession of faith in Jesus.

Also, I have been the number 44 for my whole baseball career in Japan, but, now for the first time me having this number is in jepardy since one of the managers holds this number. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think would be a good number for me to have.

God bless you!!

Pro baseball Photos

2009-05-24T02:15:00.000-07:00

Please enjoy some of my memories playing pro baseball in Japan!! I was again so blessed to have my dream come true even for such a short period! Jesus is in control! so check 'em out! God bless!!

Retired

2009-04-26T00:05:00.000-07:00

The time has come to say goodbye to professional baseball. It was short, yet, absolutely so sweet! I had a wonderful time and I was very blessed by the Lord. Well, I am praying about returning to Teruclinic to play some semi-pro in Okinawa. Baseball is so much fun when you're not getting paid. That may sound funny to others, but for me it wasn't about the money, just being with my team. God has asked me to lay aside pro baseball and to return to what He wants for me in Okinawa. God bless you and thank you for all your prayers as my dream did come true here on Robs Field of Dreams!

Professional Baseball Player of Japan

2009-01-15T00:21:00.000-08:00

I'm amazed about the things that have gone on the last few days! Kito and I were thoroughly blessed from our trip to Wakayama! The train systems were a little different from any transportaion in Okinawa. We were able to make it down to Wakayama for the tryout. All I have to say is that it lasted about 30 minutes! I warmed up in the freezing cold for about 20 of those miniutes before playing some catch with a catcher for about 10. From the mound I only threw about 15 pitches before they shut me down. Was something wrong I thought? Usually when you're shut down it means time to pack up and go home. Well, we were actually packing up to head down to the main office for 3 hours to talk about being on the team. We talked about the contract along with all the odds and ends of playing baseball with the team. Afterwards, we headed back into Osaka to be fitted for the uniform at Mizuno sports. The Lord made it so simple when it seemed so difficult. Of course there will be more to come soon. I have to head back to Wakayama before January 27th for an official team introduction. On January 13th is when I became a professional baseball player! Praise the Lord! Thank you to all who continued praying for me and being a big blessing in my life. Also, big thanks to Tokito for being the main man while traveling the mean trains, planes, and subways in Osaka and for being the best super agent an old cat can have! God bless you brother! More to come later! Please stay in tuned!!

Pro Yakyu (Professional Baseball)

2008-12-26T21:48:00.000-08:00

Well, here we go. For about a month now, I have been communicating with an Independent Professional team in mainland Japan. About a month a half ago, I sent my baseball profile to 10 Independent Pro teams in the mainland area. Lately, the Lord has been really speaking to me about stepping out in faith, especially, when it seems impossible. Well, I immediately recieved a response from one of the teams signifying that they weren't interested. It was a little discouraging, yet, soon after, 2 others teams replied with interest and a tryout if I was willing to take the hour and a half flight up to mainland. I had two teams to pray about and seek the Lord on which team I would go for. I actually decided to heavily talk to the Fukui Miracle Elephants. What a name huh? Well, they're a stronger team and they also have the nicest uniform. Over time, I simply lost interest in this team and continued my talks with the Kishu Rangers. The team you see in the above pics is the team I will be trying out for next year. I was actually blessed with 2 round trip tickets from my family. Myself and my brother Tokito will be flying to Osaka on January 12th. The tryout is in Wakayama about an hour and a half south of Osaka at the Kishu Rangers Stadium. It's exciting to see the Lord provide simply when you just step out in faith! My desire is to share Jesus with baseball players alike everywhere! Please pray for us and just what the Lord wants to do! It's all about Him!!! God bless you and continue to keep in contact for the next chapter of robsfieldof dreams!

Merry Christmas

2008-12-20T01:32:00.000-08:00

Thursday nights are definitely my favorite. The indoor field house is just too extraordinary! We warmed up, played some catch, and then a few of us went outside to the practice field and did some tire training. That's right, we raced each other pulling tires with ropes! I'm definitely sore today around the hips! Next week will be our last practice of the year and then I have some big news on where the Lord may have me next. Please stay tuned and check in next time at the Robs Field of Dreams! God bless you and thanks for your continual prayers!

Saturday Practice

2008-12-14T23:26:00.000-08:00

Saturday was another day of training! The season won't start until next year, but, we keep on playing the game in great fashion. The weather has been a lot warmer of late. It was just great being with the guys again. I'm not sure how long I'll be with the Teruclinic guys, but, I know the Lord definitely has a plan for me practicing with the team. I also threw a 30 pitch bullpen from the 100 pitches I threw on thursday. Please pray that the Lord will give super natural strength!!

Ginowan field photos

2008-12-11T18:57:00.000-08:00

Toss

2008-12-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Ginowan Baystar's Facility

2008-12-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

Thursday's practice was the first one that I attended since the Bible college semester has nearly come to an end. The Ginowan field house is superb! Talk about a pro level facility! The Yokohama Baystars from mainland Japan hold their spring camp here during February. We had a full squad of around 11 guys. I was able to throw a pen which is always a blessing. If you look closely in one of the pitching video's, you will notice the condition of the mound is actually in poor shape. Upon landing after every toss, I felt like I was falling into a sink hole. I still threw about 100 pitches as I'm just trying to keep my arm in shape. Hope you'll like these video's. God bless you and thanks for checking in to the Field of Dreams.

The Cages

2008-12-10T18:53:00.000-08:00

New Shoes

2008-12-10T18:44:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago I bought a new pair of shoes on base for about $20. The very next day at practice, Ryo, one of the other pitchers on the team, absolutely loved them and wanted to buy a pair for himself. I told him that I might be able to buy a pair for him if I had another chance to head on base. Well, I was blessed to be able to buy him a pair on tuesday for the same price. He was blown away that they cost only $20. It was the first time I'd bought a size 9 shoe since I was a young boy! we worked out together wearing the same shoes and overall I was blessed to see the look on his face when I brought out the shoes! Also, here are some of the guys taking some swings in the cage. God bless you!

Ginowan Pony Field

2008-12-06T03:39:00.000-08:00

Every saturday we gather down in Ginowan at the local Pony field for mostly infield practice. Today it was severly cold and almost unbearable. None of the pitchers were able to throw a pen due to the weather, neither could any of the guys take some batting practice in fear of a few cracked bats. Afterwards we gathered for some pictures despite the freezing cold. The guy on the far right in the group picture is "Kawaii-san." He's new to the team and is the second oldest guy on the team next to me at 25 years old. He recieved a Christian baseball DVD and said he would watch it for sure. Practice was cold but sweet.

Always for the kids

2008-12-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

Wednesday's practice was a little bit different than usually. Near the Teruclinic facilty, there's a park where many kids gather to play baseball. These kids usually play with an Okinawan "gumball" or "Nanshiki." We went to play some catch when all of a sudden, the kids noticed a big white guy playing with them. Well you guessed it, the kids were hanging around us and asking all kinds of questions. These kids are the future of baseball in Okinawa. It's always important to incorporate the kids in everything we do! So, I asked them if they wanted to take some pics with us. They swarmed the camera lense! I was very blessed to have inspired some kids in any way. Jesus said, "Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me." Matthew 18:3-5

Teruclinic

2008-11-28T02:13:00.000-08:00

Wednesday was another practice at the Teruclinic facility. We hit the weights along with a good long warm-up. Some of the guys took some batting practice. This is the inside of the workout room. Nao and Kina-san are hitting them weights hardcore. The season is over officially until next year, but the training continues! Please pray that these guys will learn more about their Creator, Jesus! 神は愛!

Bad News Bears?

2008-11-24T04:41:00.000-08:00

Tournament clips

2008-11-24T04:10:00.000-08:00

Urasoe Stadium

2008-11-19T16:48:00.000-08:00

Wednesday afternoon was yet another practice, but this time, we were at Urasoe Stadium only about 10 minutes from the house in Ginowan! This is where the Yukult Swallows from the Japanese bigs have their spring camp. We were blessed to have the opportunity to practice on this beautiful field! Above in the top picture is our very own manager, Ishikawa-san. He's only 23 years old and also works with Teruya-san at Teruclinic. This man is probably the most gentle Japanese man I've ever met! During team meetings, he's very soft spoken in his speeches along with encouragement on how each person can become better at their respective position. He's also a pitcher and can hit some as well. Pray for Ishikawa-san that the Lord will get a hold of his gentle heart!

Koza Field House

2008-11-16T04:46:00.000-08:00

Saturday afternoon was yet another great practice. Practice was held at the Koza field house in Okinawa City. The field house has an indoor batting cage and pitching mound. I was able to throw a bullpen with Teruclinic's very own catcher, Kina-san. He's a young guy with a great throw down to second base! He also works for Doctor Teruya-san at Teru. I am blessed just being able to practice with these guys! Please pray for these players that they would come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and Savior! As practice continues, I will be introducing more and more of the guys! God bless you and thank u for your prayers!

Oshiro san

2008-11-12T23:22:00.000-08:00

Let me introduce you to the assistant manager for the Teruclinic baseball club. His name is Nao Oshiro! Nao is 20 years old and plays 2nd base. He was the first guy I met at Teruclinic and also has helped me with my contract. Every practice he always has a smile and a few english words to share with me! He has a lot of passion for the game and he also works at the clinic. Him and Teruya-san together create DVD's for each tournament game! My favorite was when they played against Honda from mainland Japan! God has given me favor with these guys not only just to play baseball with them, but also to get to know them!

Yokohama Baystars Camp

2008-11-12T23:13:00.000-08:00

About 2 years ago, Trevor, Keisuke and myself were able to meet a couple Americans playing pro baseball in Japan. This players name was Jason Beverlyn. Before then he played for the Yakult Swallows before having to undergo surgery on his elbow. Here was his first camp with the Yokohama Baystars. We chated with him for awile asking plenty of questions about his big league career. He played a brief stint with the Detroit Tigers before being traded to Japan. He informed us that he was hoping to return to the big leagues. We were actually able to share with him a little why we lived in Okinawa.

Wednesday Practice

2008-11-12T23:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had practice at the Teruclinic facility. We usually workout with weights and do some agility exercises along with some batting practice and a little tossing. One of the pitchers on the team took me for a 10km run around Naha! I guess I thought he was joking when he said it would be about 7 or 8 km! It was a good 45 minute run in the city, me(this big white guy)with two Okinawan guys crusing around the capital city of Naha. Here are some pics of the guys along with the field house and the sports hospital. I'm blessed that these guys let me practice with them! Please keep these guys in your prayers! God bless you and enjoy the Teruclinic!

Aniya Blue

2008-11-11T17:10:00.001-08:00

This was actually the 2nd team I played for in Okinawa. The team was called Aniya Try Baseball Club. I worked out at this facility with the team for about 3 months before they also went under. It was a blessing just getting to know some of the guys from Osaka and seeing their passion for baseball! This is Daniel and I playing some catch in the bullpen! Daniel did a great job!

Clips

2008-11-11T17:01:00.000-08:00

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Here are some older clips from last years tournament when I was playing for the Naha Samurai club team.

Tournament

2008-11-11T01:18:00.000-08:00

This is Akama Stadium up in Onna Villiage. A pro team from Korea has spring training here during February.My team had a tournament last year in August.

The beginning

2008-11-11T01:08:00.001-08:00

Here is the first blog for our Okinawan baseball fans out there! Baseball in Japan is huge! Their passion for the game is much bigger than the game itself! Pray that the Okinawan and Japanese people have that same passion for our Lord Jesus Christ! It all begins here on the Field of Dreams!