Kosuke Fukudome Hits Big with Cubs Fans

n his first three games as a Chicago Cub Kosuke Fukudome has gone 4-for-8 with three RBIs. Adding to the buzz is the fact that three of his four hits have gone for extra bases, including a three-run homer in the ninth on Opening Day.

      Fukudome has more than slugging ability. Thursday's game against the Brewers highlighted his patience and speed. He hit a double on two at bats, earned two walks and stole a base to score two runs for another winning game. "He works the count very well," said Cubs manager Lou Piniella. "He probably takes more pitches than anybody else on the team. He's in a three-ball count a heck of a lot." In the stands for Thursday's game were eight Cubs fans spelling out his name on their bare chests.

Chicago Cubs' Kosuke Fukudome, front, of Japan, safely steals second base as Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks applies a late tag during the fourth inning of a baseball game on Thursday, April 3, 2008, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

      With the walk in his first at-bat Wednesday Fukudome become the first player in the Major Leagues since Kaz Matsui to begin his career getting safely on base on five consecutive plate appearances. Fukudome might just be what the Cubs need to get into the World Series for the first time since 1945 when they lost to Detroit 4-3. The Cubs won the World Series in 1907 and 1908.

Chicago Cubs third base coach Mike Quade, left, talks to Fukudome during the fourth inning against Milwaukee on Thursday, April 3, 2008. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Fukudome hits a double against the Brewers during the second inning. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)