BORA BORA (AP) - "So this is what it feels like to be in the bigs. I've been waiting for this day a long, long, long time." Those were the only statements made by pitcher Johnny Hubbell as he walked out of the clubhouse after a very solid first appearance where he scattered 3 hits over two innings, allowing no runs in a 1-0 win over Stockholm.

After a number of years toiling in the minor league systems of Long Beach and Bora Bora, Surfrider President and G.M. Sean Uezu finally made the decision to promote Hubbell. When asked to what finally compelled him to promote the highly touted Hubbell, Sean smiled and said, "Ryu [Nobeoka] said we need some help. He said he doesn't want to just babysit this year. He wants to make a run. I'm trying to work some deals to bring in more talent, but in the meantime to help keep up with the Dragons, I've promoted Hubbell. I'll also take a look at some of our other top prospects and trade opportunities, but I'm sure Johnny will give our clubhouse a much needed boost."

Team Captain Ryu Nobeoka stated through his translator after the one run win. "I guess it's better late than never. While I have been pressing management to get us some help and promote some of the kids--I understand that this is a business. I know that Mr. Uezu writes the checks and that he is concerned about Johnny leaving after his contract expires, just when he is reaching his potential... but I want to win. Thanks to Johnny we rebounded after that tough loss to Sicily. I think he will be a difference maker--but I just hope this is not too little, too late."

When confronted about the trade rumours swirling about himself, Nobeoka pushed his translator aside and stated, "Uezu-san won't trade me. I came into the league with a B on my cap and I will retire with a B on my cap. We will win. You just wait. You see the kid tonight? John-chan didn't give up when he got into trouble. We won't give up!"

Now that Hubbell has reached the bigs--when will he get the starting nod? Pitching coach Sandy Kofax mentioned in the post-game conference, "The rotation is pretty solid except for the #5 spot with both Swindells and Baker struggling. I think that once Hubbell sees a bit more Weaver League caliber hitting and realize that he can't just blow by these hitters with his fastball and needs to pitch and now throw, Manager Jeff Spicoli will hand Hubbell his rightful spot in the rotation."

With the Hubbell watch done--the spotlight has turned to Todd Crosby. When will he get the nod? When asked that very question, Sean just smiled and winked. I guess Ryu, Hubble and company will be getting even more help soon.