Los Angeles Dodgers’ Hiroki Kuroda gets back to the mound while thanking supporters – MLB Update
Players from Japan in Major League Baseball are expressing their gratitude over the overwhelming support that everyone has shown them over the tragic events which have recently devastated Japan. Los Angeles Dodgers’ Hiroki Kuroda is one such player, as he
returns to the mound to face the Chicago White Sox.
The Dodger’s pitcher was active in the Cactus League as he pitched 71 times at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona. One of the moments he took to the heart before the event was a moment of silence that was offered to those who succumbed to the earthquake
and tsunami that has devastated his home country of Japan. Speaking through his translator, Kenji Nimua, who has still not heard anything from his in-laws in Sendai, Kuroda expressed his gratitude to the crowd and the supporters.
"I am really grateful that people in this country are concerned about our people," Kuroda said. "As a player from Japan and representative of my country, I feel very grateful."
Kuroda was not impressive in his outing against the Chicago White Sox, as he conceded two home runs and two other runs in six innings of pitching. The player was not effective in the encounter, but he strangely did not pitch a single walk.
"I felt my mechanics were a little fast early, but I was able not to give up walks," Kuroda said. "My goal in Spring Training in each game is to increase my pitch count and I was able to go six innings in 71 pitches and in that regard, I was glad."
The player however has needed attention, following the problems in Japan. The team is working hard to facilitate any special needs that Kuroda may need during this recent tragedy.
"Off the field, it is very difficult when I go online or watch CNN and see the horrific images and hear the devastating news," he said.
With Kuroda playing a significant role with the Dodgers, fans will hope he gets back into form, as the 2011 Major League Baseball season draws near.
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