"Alex Anthopoulos was swarmed in a corner of the Imperial ball room of the Pfister Hotel on Tuesday evening.

Facing 16 men and women from Japan, each one holding a camera, a note pad or a microphone, he was asked about his summer trip to the Far East at the annual general managers meetings.

"I enjoyed my time in Japan, the people were friendly, we had good food ... and I really enjoyed watching all those position players," Anthopoulos told reporters.

His answer was greeted by silence.

And then he laughed.

As did everyone else.

Anthopoulos of course made an August visit to scout right-hander Yu Darvish, while assistant GM Tony LaCava saw Darvish pitch twice. Darvish has yet to have his contract posted by the Nippon Ham Fighters. Once it is, clubs will submit bids and only the highest bidder can negotiate with him."