Before 2001, there were questions whether a Japanese position player could cut it in the major leagues.
Ichiro Suzuki won both the Rookie Of The Year and Most Valuable Player Awards that year, quieting critics with his blazing speed, cannon outfield arm and masterful hitting. The only thing Ichiro lacked was power.
Hideki Matsui proved that Japanese players can come over to the States and slug with the best of them. Perhaps Japan's strongest power hitter since Sadaharu Oh, Matsui won the MVP in 2002, his third time doing so, and just barely missed winning the Triple Crown.
As left fielder for the New York Yankees, Matsui proved to be one of the most reliable, consistent and professional players in the game. Every at bat Godzilla puts in is a tough out, and the man knows how to hit. In 2004, after a year of adjustment, that monsterous power emerged as well.
NEW YORK - Hideki Matsui could be out until the all-star break as the Yankees slugger tries to work his way back from a sore left knee.
Publ.Date : Thu, 03 Jul 2008 01:10:00 GMTThe Yankees had hoped that Hideki Matsui would be able to take batting practice this weekend, but his troublesome left knee did not cooperate. An operation is possible and would likely end his season.
Publ.Date : Fri, 04 Jul 2008 01:38:54 GMTNEW YORK - Hideki Matsui was placed on the 15-day disabled list Friday with a sore left knee, leaving the New York Yankees without one of their key sluggers.
Publ.Date : Sat, 28 Jun 2008 01:47:00 GMTNEW YORK (AP) — Hideki Matsui could be out until the All-Star break as the Yankees slugger tries to work his way back from a sore left knee. General manager Brian Cashman said Wednesday that Matsui was still hobbled by the injury, which landed him on the disabled list Friday.
Publ.Date : Thu, 03 Jul 2008 07:59:22 GMTPITTSBURGH - New York Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui remained out of the lineup - and the batting cage - with a sore left knee Thursday and will be re-examined Friday by team doctors.
Publ.Date : Fri, 27 Jun 2008 00:14:00 GMT
Full Hideki Matsui News
Hideki Matsui earned the nickname Godzilla in Japan because of his powerful bat.
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