It’s Party time for the Fighters fans as they wrapped it up in 5 at Sapporo. The game itself was less than scintillating as the Dragons’ offense simply refused to show up against Pretty Boy Darvish but the ensuing Beer Fest was superb. The Hamsters once again generated just enough offense to win and Shinjo was unable to hold back the tears as he batted in his 8th and final inning in his tighty whitey uniform. Of course he promptly struck out and just as certainly, no one cared; Shinjo is nothing if not a triumph of style over substance and the Hokkaido crowd was enveloped in ShinJoy Love following the anticlimactic contest. The Stylish One got the triumphant toss in the air from his grateful teammates and all was wonderful in J-land as the charismatic poster boy for Nippon baseball ended his career in very fitting fashion as a Champion.
Do you detect a note of bitterness to my screed? It’s true, I admit to being a Shinjo Hater but in this Series I will enthusiastically allow that Mr. Smiley Face played admirably and was a credit to his team. Further, his teammates really did seem to get a boost from his effervescent presence and that buzz carried them to victory against the lifeless Chunichi Crew. A more perfect ending to a Baseball career could not be imagined so, once again, big ups to all you Shinjo lovers out there, you know who you are!
As for me…………well………….yes………..it’s wait ‘till next year again as it has been for at least 2 decades but I am genuinely happy for the Fighter fans who are taking home their 1st Championship ever. The victory must indeed taste sweet and perhaps next year that feast will be in Koshien but for now; PARTY ON HOKKAIDO AND GO TIGERS!