AAA is more for career minor leaguers that are always ready to be called up for an emergency. Either that or players who need a few more games to adjust.

The potential ramifications of basically raiding talent from Japan, this is EXTREMELY exciting. He may not end up meeting all the potential that’s been built up by the hype, but SOME of it has to be real given the level of interest and coverage.

First Dice-K, then Oak, now Taz? We are a Japanese pitching goldmine.

Based on the scouting reports I’ve seen—not a lot of velocity or stamina—he sounds more like a relief pitcher. I hope he isn’t an expensive bust.

Here’s the link:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2008/11/red-sox-make-of.html

When we put up the $51.1 Mil for Dice, there was a lot of talk about how it will help us down the road with the Japanese talent pool, and this has to be the first example of how its helping. Apparently Tazawa turned down more money elsewhere in order to play for the Sox. I haven’t read exactly why he wanted to be with the Sox, but I would think that Dice and Oki’s presence and success here has to be a major reason.

…like a done deal. Per Extra Bases (Boston Globe). It seems more like a flyer on a guy who could be serviceable ’pen help (at worst) or a 4th or 5th starter (at best).

Anyhow, a nice little move…

I remember thinking when he signed “that’s a fair price for a translator.”

Then he was an all-star.

Ah, the good old days.