Japanese WBC fans "in love" with Lars Nootbar as St Louis Cardinals star makes run-saving catch for his team

You might not think that a player with a name like Lars Nootbar would be representing Team Japan at the World Baseball Classic.

Although he was born in California, he claims Japanese links through his mother, who was born on the Asian Isle.

Entering the tournament, South Korea were seen as Team Japan's biggest challenger in their group. However, the KBO-stacked team dropped their first game of the World Baseball Classic in an 8-7 upset against Australia.

During the top 5th inning of today's game against South Korea at Tokyo Dome, Nootbar made a scintilating catch. This came on a tailing fly-ball that came off the bat of San Diego Padres shortstop Ha-seong Kim. The play kept Japan ahead by a 4-3 margin. They are now ahead by a score of 11-4 in the 8th inning.

"Lars Nootbar! GO HEAD! Fantastic catch in CF for Japan!" - Fox Sports MLB

Fans were quick to react, sharing their thoughts on Twitter:

Nootbar also followed up his success with an RBI in the game. He is only adding to the mania that was felt at the Tokyo Dome as Japan pummeled the opposition in the tournament opener.

Team Japan supporters cannot get enough of Nootbar. One fan even went as far as to say that "All of Japan is in love with him." Some also outlined that Nootbar, who doesn't share many physical traits with his teammates, is forging a new trail for Japanese-Americans.

South Korea was always going to be Japan's biggest challenger in Pool A. After this game, they will only have to play Australia and Czechia before they inevitably advance to the next stage.

Lars Nootbar will gain valuable proffessional experience at the World Baseball Classic

Team Japan is continuing their World Baseball Classic action in Pool B. Two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani made his much-awaited debut for his country in their 8-1 win over China on March 9. Ohtani captivated fans, hitting an RBI double and shutting out the opposition throughout four innings of play.

Lars Nootbar of the St. Louis Cardinals is regarded as one of the top up-and-coming outfielders in the game. He had a breakout season for the Cardinals, hitting 14 home runs and 40 RBIs, while splitting his time between all three outfield roles.

Since winning the 2006 and 2009 World Baseball Classic tournaments, Japan has been unable to capture another title. While Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani might be the main draw for fans, Lars Nootbar is proving to be an important asset too.

He will doubtless develop as a player due to his experiences in the WBC.