Really doesn't matter as you have to bid for the rights to talk to him with his current team, not to mention all the bids are blind. That bid alone is going to be $60 Million+ and doesn't include his contract which will be huge. I understand that but all Fukudome has to do is pick up the phone and give him a call. Players are always encouraging other players to join their team. Yes, but again, it doesn't matter. Darvish wouldn't control the team that gets his rights, it's a blind auction. If the Cubs manage to win the auction then yes. The only thing useful Fukudome do now is talk to potential owners about ponying up the $70 million posting fee to have the rights to negotiate a contract with him. Actually we might be better off filling Cuban's blog with emails about this guy and how he is the next Dirk of baseball or something of that nature. Given Dirk's performance in the playoffs the last couple of years, would that really be a good idea?