Image via Complex Original
Intro
Today, the 2012 MLB season officially started while most of you were probably still asleep (5 a.m. ET, son!). Ichiro Suzuki made his return to Japan where he led the Seattle Mariners to a 3-1 victory over the Oakland Athletics in 11 innings. To commemorate the beginning of a long, trying year for many MLB fans (more specifically Mets fans), we're taking a look at how the players, coaches and mascots have fun with America's favorite pastime in Japan. From absolutely ridiculous wall-scaling feats to their awesome team celebrations, here's our collection of Cool Shots From Recent Japanese Baseball History. Konnichiwa, bitches!
Just Scaling the Wall is For Amateurs
Just Scaling the Wall is For Amateurs
Person(s) in the Photo: Masato Akamatsu
Stunt 101.
Attack of the Creepy Mascot
Attack of the Creepy Mascot
Person(s) in the Photo: Brisky the Bear (Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters mascot)
Where's Chris Hanson when you need him?
Are You Interested in the Game Now
Are You Interested in the Game Now?
Person(s) in the Photo: Unknown
If Fred Wilpon signs her we'll promise to tune in once every five games.
It's Baseball, Not Faceball
Taking One for the Team
Person(s) in the Photo: Unknown
Having balls in your face is never a good look. Unless you're into that kind of thing...
He's Heeere
Not This Dude
Person(s) in the Photo: Jose Canseco
We guess making appearances overseas beats sonning yourself on Twitter.
The Feeling of Victory
The Feeling of Victory
Person(s) in the Photo: Seibu Lions
Sure beats being at the bottom of a dog pile.
Step Up Your Souvenir Retrieval Game
Creativity FTW
Person(s) in the Photo: Daisuke Matsuzaka
Asking for the ball is just too passive of an approach.
Mariah In Japan
Mariah In Japan
Person(s) in the Photo: Mariah Carey
If you thought MC throwing out the first pitch was a horrible idea, you'd be right. Aside from the short shorts, of course.
Celebrate
Celebrate!
Person(s) in the Photo: Fans in Fukuoka Dome
Free condoms for everyone! Oh, wait.
What's Going On Over There
What's Going On Over There?
Person(s) in the Photo: Paolon (Chunichi Dragons mascot)
It's probably best if you just let it, uh, finish doing what it's doing.
We Do Things A Little Different Over Here
Touchy-Feely
Person(s) in the Photo: Bobby Valentine
Looks like we have another addition to this list.
Spiderman in Japan
Spiderman in Japan
Person(s) in the Photo: Masato Akamatsu
Unlike the American version, this Spiderman can actually perform stunts without hurting himself or the crowd. Zing!
Star Wars Baseball
Star Wars Baseball
Person(s) in the Photo: Darth Vader, Storm Trooper & C-3PO
Ahem. Sorry, but in real life, we all know that no one would get a hit off of Darth Vader. *pushes up glasses*
