[bears9]

MESA, Ariz. (AP) -- Kosuke Fukudome walked into the Chicago Cubs' spring training facility and cameras clicked at his every move. He stopped by manager Lou Piniella's office for a brief handshake and then got a first glimpse of his new teammates.

His welcome to the big leagues moment came immediately, courtesy of a prank by Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano had pulled Fukudome's familiar No. 1 jersey over his broad shoulders and Fukudome found a No. 11 hanging in his locker instead.

"I was surprised there was an extra `1,"' Fukudome said.

Zambrano suddenly pulled off the No. 1 shirt, handed it to Fukudome and greeted him.

"That was a welcome," Zambrano said. "Just let him know we are his family and he can spend a good time this season with us. He can help us and can feel comfortable here with the Cubs."

The Cubs signed Fukudome, a prized free agent, to a $48 million, four-year contract to be their right fielder. They're hoping he can emulate the success of Japanese countrymen Ichiro Suzuki and Hideki Matsui, including their smooth transition to the big leagues.

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