Yes, I know, it's fans prediction week for Japanese baseball, but there were more entries than expected from Japan, North America and even New Zealand, and there just is not enough space to include all the picks and comments. Instead, let me tell you something about the Major League tour set to begin in a few days, and I'll summarize the predictions and acknowledge the participants at the end of the column.

The much-awaited MLB Opening Games in Japan 2003 are set to begin with the Seattle Mariners and Oakland Athletics due to arrive in Tokyo on Thursday to prepare for the first official American League games on March 25 and 26. The event promises to be busy and hectic.

Oakland should have the tougher time overcoming jet lag and adjusting to the Tokyo clock.