Lost in Translation

Translators are becoming more and more ubiquitous in American professional sports. As more players come from Asia, Central and South America, and the Carribbean to find the American Dream, the language barrier becomes increasingly important. During the season, good translators can be crucial to a player's adjustment to American life and to getting the most out of their coaching and support staff.

In The Year of the Yao, the importance of the translator in modern sports was put in the spotlight. By the end of his first season in the NBA, Yao Ming had formed a bond of trust and companionship with his American translator, relying on him to be the bridge to his social, economic, and athletic advancement. During the season, translation is serious business, but in the offseason with lower stakes, it can be hilarious.

When the Red Sox introduced their newest pitcher to the world, it was through the mouth of Tak Soto, a Japanese translator who leaves much to be desired. Here are some highlights:

Q. I'd like to get your impression of Fenway Park, after pitching off the mound, your initial impression off the park that you're going to be pitching in.

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA: When the season starts, I'm looking forward to the game.

Q. Welcome and I wonder if you could tell us at what point in these negotiations that you realized that you would be coming to the Red Sox, and did you have your doubts that this day would come to pass?

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA: My nickname is Japan is Monster.

Q. Have there been any talk about where you'll fit into the rotation and with your new teammates, has there been any contact with your new teammates?

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA: Not even the game between Yankees and Red Sox in Japan maybe Giants and Tigers.

Q. What do you think of all these journalists being here that are specifically going to cover you? For the last month, there has been a lot of media and a lot of talk, what do you think about it?

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA: I feel very long, even the U.S. negotiation style but I think make it as easy as possible in the meantime.