Ichiro and Japan showed the world that baseball talent isn't limited to the Western Hemisphere.

While players like Hideo Nomo, Hideki Matsui, and Ichiro Suzuki proved that Asian players could make it in the major leagues, most teams have so far limited themselves to acquiring aging relievers or utility infielders from a unique and fertile talent pool.

Several high-profile signings this season may change that perception. The Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees both spent heavily on young Japanese pitchers, while the Devil Rays sought to augment their struggling offense with slugger Akinori Iwamura. While it remains to be seen how they'll perform in the pressure cooker that is the AL East, it's clear that teams see an enormous amount of potential in these Far East players.

Baseball has been looking across the Pacific for talent for some time now, and seems ready to begin importing top talent in earnest. SportsNation, what do you think of the influx of Asian players in baseball? Cast your vote now!