Democratic, market-oriented Taiwan is a thorn in its side.

That's been a thorn in our side all year. We have to keep working on it. It's a mental thing. We're lucky that didn't bite us tonight.

Every rose has its thorn

Every year, there's going to be someone who's going to be a thorn in your side. This year, it's the Devil Rays. You look at their record lately, and it's not too shabby. They've always had talented people.

It's like a thorn has been removed from the market.

I'll be glad you're gone. You've been a thorn in my side.