By Scott Black, Bayou Brief Correspondent

Morimoto, who is currently visiting family in his native homeland of Japan was reached via email and asked to comment on Tanner’s recent remarks. Morimoto sent a long email, but here are the highlights:

With all due respect, I think we can all agree that Tanner made some pretty idiotic comments. I would appeal to Jack Cobb, but you guys know that sometimes the tail wags the dog. I am sure that the amount of disrespect offered up by Tanner about my immense talent and place in future lineups can be understood by everyone, and very justifiably I am angry.  I have enjoyed my time in New Orleans, but perhaps it is time to change scenery or find a team that will respect my contribution to the everyday lineup.

I am also saddened by the fact that my dream of playing in my native baseball league is ending after this year. I realize there will still be teams in Japan next year, but the uniqueness of the LRS will be altered. While I had not previously considered moving on in my career prior to this disrespect, I do see a simplistic harmony to the idea of returning to Japan for the twilight of my career. I can’t make it happen on my current contract, but I can dream. Maybe some team will from the LRS will take pity and convince Tanner to give me up. Maybe they won’t.

Either way, I will be hitting home runs again next baseball season. Will it be Trendsetter fans who will be catching them?

Were Tanner’s comments misplaced? Did he go too far? Morimoto batting average has certainly dropped over the past two seasons, but there can be no denying his impact on the offense, after he lead the team in home runs in runs batted in. But the Trendsetters also owned the worst offense in the Imperial League, so is that like winning a beauty pageant because you were the only one without a unibrow?

Morimoto responded extremely well when moving from Florida to Manchester and then to New Orleans. So maybe a move is in his best interest? Is there a home for this native son to return to and ride the final LRS season into glory? Or will the Trendsetters have a possible clubhouse cancer on their hands in a disgruntled Morimoto?