As one who witnessed the 2002 Goodwill Series to which Bob refers above, I can attest that the following that baseball, generally, receives in Japan is extraordinary. Every one of our six games was played in a Japanese major league stadium, and the turnout had us American family members awe struck.
It was truly a sight to behold; and, once we'd witnessed these games between all-stars from the six prefects against our American all-star team, we could readily understand how the Japanese high school championship could pack a Japanese major league stadium.
I wish every American fan of the game could witness first-hand the passion and reverence accorded the game by Japanese fans. It's truly a sight to behold and has given my son and me a memory that we will never forget. We will also both be indebted to Bob, his staff, and the series' sponsors for the opportunity to have been a part of it.