Why Bobby, Why?

While perusing the Twins website in true "I should be doing something more productive" fashion, I came across this article.

Now, first I was mad. Why in the world would we give up Bobby Keppel to sign a 34 year old relief pitcher who was on the disabled list TWICE last year? I know Bobby had his issues, but he had talent. And I very much enjoyed his bald head.

Then I got to the bottom of the article to read this: "In a corresponding roster move, the Twins announced that they released right-hander Bobby Keppel. The pitcher asked for his release so he could sign with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of the Japanese Pacific League for the 2010 season."

Ummmm what? WHAT? Ok, maybe Bobby wants to go to Japan. I get it. I hear it's a lovely place. But he wants to play for the Ham Fighters? What's so wrong with ham and why are they fighting it? Or are they fighting with ham? Which sounds greasy and unpleasant.

So now I'm left feeling hurt and confused. I liked you Bobby Keppel, and now you've left me. Sure, I yelled at you a few times when you walked three batters in a row, but it wasn't personal. I'm sorry if you took it that way. But you didn't need to run off and fight with ham. Or against it. I'm not sure.

But whatever it is you are doing, we wish you well in Japan. Be like Lew, and come home soon. Because we will most definately miss our bald reliever.