TOKYO (AP): The Tokyo Tsunamis war room was abuzz the night before the draft as the Tsunamis pulled off one of the bigger trades in team history.

Tokyo agreed to trade longtime Captain and team leader, Eric Karros, as well as Jose Oliva, Nomar Garciapara and the #27 pick in the draft to Long Beach for veteran pitcher Dave King and prospects Bob Ryan, Jud Grasmick, Bill Berry, Ike Dibble and the #34 and #67 picks in the draft.

"Its a big deal," team Owner Mike Wilson said. "We know it is a risk, but pro sports is not a risk-adverse indsutry."

"We are a bad team, but we are trying to get better. We have a plan, and as I have always said we want to make the team into a champion and that takes time and patience."

"I love the guys we traded, but everything we do we do for the team. We are casting a wide net for talent. We hope we catch some."

An emotional Karros said, "Hey I love this franchise, I love the atmosphere, attitude and people, but as a player I appreciate the move, as it will allow me to take a shot at a title."

"I knew eventually I would probably get dealt, Mike has always been honest with me, and I'm glad I get to compete again, who knows maybe I'll be back in Tokyo sooner than you think."

When asked if he would consider returning to manage Tokyo at the end of the season Karros responded, "I'm not a manager, I am the backup first baseman for the Long Beach Lobsters." Wilson commented, "That kind of talk is inappropriate at this time, but he will always have a home with Tokyo, always."

Oliva and Garciapara were unavailable for comment according to thier agents as they were already on a plane to return stateside to join the Lobsters.