The first Asian-born player to join the Phillies, Iguchi “Gooch” Tadahito was a welcomed and celebrated addition to the team when he was acquired back in July to replace an injured Chase Utley as 2nd baseman. From an August victory over the Florida Marlins emerged the curiously titled fan group “Tadahito’s Burritos,” and further enthusiasm for city’s new talent grew as the Phillies overtook the Mets to win the NL East title. Much to Philly’s disappointment, however, contractual oversights left Iguchi a free agent and he was subsequently snatched up by the San Diego Padres this past Tuesday, December 18th. Though we can’t blame him for wanting to be closer to home, the professional and cultural loss of the city is disappointing.

When Japanese Central League MVP Fukudome Kosuke announced in November his decision to pursue a career in the Major Leagues, sports blogs exploded with gossip and reflected the excitement of baseball fans across the country. Alongside Boston, New York, Seattle, Texas, San Francisco, and Tampa Bay, Philadelphia reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Fukudome, but alas, on December 11 the Chicago Cubs signed the Japanese star to a four-year contract worth about $48 million.

With most of the above-mentioned cities drawing Japanese attention enlisting the likes of Ichiro (Seattle), Matsuzaka (Boston), Matsui (New York), Iwamura (Tampa Bay), and now Fukudome in San Diego, we’re left wondering: When will Philadelphia once again be home to another Japanese baseball star?


UPDATE: It brings us great joy to add that, as if in response to our hopes, the Phillies have signed former St. Louis Cardinal So Taguchi! Known for his defensive versatility and solid batting average, the Japanese player has been discussed as a preemptive replacement for Shane Victorino and is a welcomed addition to the team and to the city of Philadelphia.