By Saruwatari Tsuyoshi, Kyoto Shimbun News

8/7/2013: Kyoto, Japan – Stars of the Rising Sun shining under a setting sun.  A gentle breeze bearing promise of culinary delights, thundering with cheer.  Hot dogs, sushi, udon, ramen; it’s all here.

The LRS All Star game was front and center today and the show was spectacular.  Edo fans were treated to a BBG starting rotation that looked familiar.  The local team made history by having its entire starting rotation elected to the game.  Fans especially enjoyed being able to root for players from rival teams, notably Kuwana, who sent rookie sensation Nori Oike to the starting lineup.

In the end, the BBG won the day in a 10-6 brawl that looked to be over early after game MVP Shimei Nakamura (Kuwana) sent a three-run homer into the crowd.  The SSG showed the cut of their cloth and fought back to make it a one-run game in the late stages.

We asked the fans what they enjoyed about the game today.  “I love Nori Oike!” Kuwana fan Haruka gleefully offered.  “Did you see his home run?  Wow!  He’s going to be great!”

“How wonderful to see (Shin Seiki third baseman) Ton Nakamura play” Noriko said.  “He’s the favorite in our family.  We travelled all the way from Gifu just to see him!  He is the best!”

“Abiola!  Abiola!  Abiola!” a small group chanted nearby while blowing hot dog wrappers curled into tiny vuvuzelas.

Everyone had a memorable day at the park.  So many great players, great food, great friends and an immense spectacle of a ballgame under the tranquil Kyoto skies.  The LRS sure can put on a show!