Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Another Step



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

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Double Play

back in the game





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

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Back on the Field











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!!



Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Comeback?



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!!

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Pro baseball Photos













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!!


Sunday, April 26, 2009

Retired












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!