(11/26/2010) 2B Kazuo Matsui reached an agreement to play with the Rakuten Eagles of the Japanese Pacific League on Thursday. Matsui played in the major leagues for seven seasons, most recently with the Astros in 2010. Matsui batted .267 with 615 hits and 102 stolen bases in the majors.
Matsui happy to be with Rockies
(5/31/2010) Rockies 2B Kazuo Matsui is 4 for 14 since joining Triple-A Colorado Springs and has been welcomed by the fans. "I am honored to be welcomed like that way," Matsui told MLB.com. "I didn't expect that at all." This is the switch-hitters second time around with the Rockies, after being released by the Astros on May 20. "I am very grateful to the Rockies for giving me another chance. I will do my best to get the good result. I am still confident I can get back to the Majors," he said.
Matsui reports to Triple-A affiliate
(5/26/2010) 2B Kazuo Matsui passed his physical Tuesday and reported to Triple-A Colorado Springs. He's back in the Rockies organization after the Astros waived him last week.
Matsui back with Rockies again
(5/24/2010) After clearing waivers earlier in the day, Kazuo Matsui signed a minor-league deal with the Rockies on Monday, according to MLB.com. The 35-year-old played with Colorado from 2006-07 and batted .300 with the team before signing with the Astros in 2008. The switch-hitter was hitting just .141 in 27 games with Houston before being released last Wednesday. Upon passing a physical, he will be sent to Triple-A Colorado Springs.
Matsui clears, becomes free agent
(5/24/2010) Kaz Matsui, who was waived by the Astros last week, has cleared waivers and is an unrestricted free agent. He was in the final season of a three-year contract worth $16.5 million. Matsui struggled with injuries in his time with the Astros and was placed on the DL four times. His best season in Houston came in 2008 when he hit .293 with 33 RBI.
Astros waive Matsui Wednesday
(5/20/2010) The Astros waived struggling 2B Kaz Matsui after Wednesday's win over Colorado. Matsui, batting just .141 this season, was hitless in his last 20 at-bats. He will be replaced by infielder Oswaldo Navarro, whose contract was purchased from Triple-A Round Rock. If Matsui is not claimed by another club by Monday, he will become an unrestricted free agent.
K. Matsui struggling to get at-bats
(5/19/2010) The Astros gave SS Tommy Manzella a day off Tuesday at the Dodgers, hoping to give 2B Kazuo Matsui some at-bats without taking infielder Jeff Keppinger's bat out of the lineup. "Keppinger continues to swing the bat extremely well, and right now when you're struggling offensively, it's tough to take Keppinger out of the lineup," manager Brad Mills told MLB.com. "And what that does is make it hard on Kaz." Matsui went 0 for 4 with a strikeout and is batting .141 (10 for 71).
Manager stands behind Matsui
(5/16/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui is amidst an 0-for-16 slump and is hitting .149 on the season, but manager Brad Mills is sticking with the switch-hitter and plans to use him against right-handed pitchers, according to MLB.com. "Definitely against some right-handed pitching, he's going to get some playing time," Mills said. "I've talked to him many times [and tell him] 'You're not out of our plans,' and we try to put the guys in position to have success and be successful. We'll try to put him in matchups where he has a chance to have that opportunity."
Matsui back to the bench
(5/16/2010) Houston INF Jeff Keppinger started and led off on Sunday against the Giants in San Francisco. Keppinger started over Kazuo Matsui. Matsui has been starting just about every other game for the Astros.
Matsui back in starting lineup
(5/15/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was back in the starting lineup posted for Saturday's afternoon game against the Giants in San Francisco. He had been replaced in the lineup on Friday by Jeff Keppinger, who returned to the bench Saturday.
Matsui not in the lineup on Friday
(5/14/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was not in the lineup for Friday's game against the Giants. He has now played in every other game the last four contests. He was replaced by Jeff Keppinger in the lineup.
Matsui continues on-off schedule
(5/13/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui got the start Thursday at St. Louis as he continues to start pretty much every other day or so.
Matsui back on bench Wednesday
(5/12/2010) Houston infielder Jeff Keppinger returned to the starting lineup on Wednesday in St. Louis. Keppinger has not played since May 9 against San Diego when he went 0 for 5 to lower his batting average to .261. Kazuo Matsui played on Tuesday but did not start for Wednesday's game.
Matsui back in starting lineup
(5/11/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui started against the Cardinals in St. Louis on Tuesday after sitting out Sunday's game against the Padres. Matsui has now started four of the last six games over Jeff Keppinger. "Kaz is in the picture a little bit more, there's no doubt, with the way he's playing," Astros manager Brad Mills told MLB.com. "He's definitely getting more playing time and has picked it up a little bit. A lot of [who starts at second] is going to depend on who we're facing and the pitchers we're facing."
Matsui back in Astros lineup
(5/7/2010) Astros INF Jeff Keppinger was not in the starting lineup posted for Friday's game against San Diego. He was replaced in the lineup by Kazuo Matsui.
K. Matsui back to the bench
(5/6/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui returned to the bench Thursday against the Diamondbacks, as Jeff Keppinger started in his place.
Matsui back in lineup vs. Arizona
(5/5/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was back in the lineup Wednesday vs. Arizona. He replaced Jeff Keppinger.
Matsui walks twice in return
(4/28/2010) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was back in the lineup Wednesday in a loss at home to Cincinnati. Matsui, who had been out with a knee issue, walked twice and went 0 for 2. He is batting .125.
Matsui is healthy and playing
(4/28/2010) After being sidelined with a bruised left knee, Kaz Matsui was back in the starting lineup for the first time in five games. He was at second base and batting seventh for the Astros in their Wednesday night game against the Reds.
Matsui gets pinch-hit at-bat
(4/27/2010) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui (knee) did not start but got a pinch-hit at-bat on Tuesday against the Reds. Matsui grounded out to shortstop for the pitcher in the seventh inning. He is batting .133 on the year and remains day to day.
K. Matsui remains on the bench
(4/27/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui remained sidelined with a knee injury Tuesday as Houston opened up a series with Cincinnati.
Matsui dealing with bruised knee
(4/26/2010) From The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Kazuo Matsui (bruised left knee) was hurt Thursday. He did not play Friday, and he appeared as a pinch hitter Saturday. He was out of the lineup Sunday.
Matsui (2-for-21) no longer a regular
(4/20/2010) From The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Jeff Keppinger has supplanted Kaz Matsui in the starting lineup thanks to an impressive start that has him batting .371 (13-for-35) to go with five RBI, which ties for the team lead. Manager Brad Mills has been effusive with his praise of Keppinger, who has been clutch at the plate. "It's nice to know that people are taking notice; I feel like I have always had at-bats like that," said Keppinger, whose .450 on-base percentage is also a team-best. "I came up in the minor leagues batting in the two-hole. I just try to play my part and do my thing, and it pays dividends to the team."
Matsui gets an afternoon off
(4/16/2010) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was not in the lineup for Friday's afternoon game against the Cubs. He was replaced in the lineup by INF Jeff Keppinger.
Matsui pushed to seventh in lineup
(4/13/2010)The Sports Xchange reports Astros SS Tommy Manzella batted in the No. 2 hole for the first time this season on Monday against the Cardinals, with switch-hitting 2B Kazuo Matsui hitting seventh, a move manager Brad Mills said was designed to give the Astros a left-handed bat lower in the lineup.
(4/5/2010) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2 for 4 in a loss to the Giants on Monday. Matsui recorded two singles while striking out once.
K. Matsui goes yard
(3/21/2010)Kazuo Matsui hit his second home run of the spring, as the Astros beat Boston, 10-7, in a rain-shortened game Sunday. He also doubled, raising his spring batting average to .242.
Pressure is on Astros' Matsui
(2/19/2010)The Sports Xchange reports 2B Kazuo Matsui has been unable to stay healthy or deliver offensively through his first two seasons with the Astros. The team expects him to step up this year, but that might just be too tall an order. The team knows it, and it won't hesitate to insert Geoff Blum at second base, if Matsui shows signs of struggle.
Matsui drives in 2 in return
(9/28/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was able to return from the flu on Monday against the Phillies. He hit a two-run single in the 7th inning in the Houston victory. He went 1 for 4 and is batting .252 on the year.
Matsui (flu) doesn't start Sunday
(9/27/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was out of the starting lineup Sunday against the Reds due to flu-like symptoms. Edwin Maysonet took his place, but Matsui entered on defense in the ninth.
Matsui on small HR binge
(9/26/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui homered in the 2nd inning of Friday's loss to the Reds. His 8th homer of the year was a solo shot. He finished 2 for 4 in the game and scored twice. He's batting .254 for the season.
Astros power up on Reds
(9/17/2009) Houston hit five solo homers off Reds starter Justin Lehr but it wasn't enough to keep the Astros from their fourth consecutive loss Wednesday. Jeff Keppinger went deep twice against his former team, and Kaz Matsui, Carlos N. Lee and Geoff Blum also connected for Houston in a 6-5 loss at Cincinnati.
Matsui homers on Tuesday
(9/15/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2 for 4 on Tuesday in a loss to the Reds. Matsui hit his 6th home run of the season in the game and drove in two runs. He also scored twice and is batting .252.
Matsui has another multi-hit game
(9/12/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui had his third multi-hit game in a row on Friday in a 9-1 win over the Pirates. He went 3 for 4 from the plate with a double. He drove in two and scored two runs, stealing a base as well. His batting average improved to .251 on the season with the performance.
Matsui drives nail in Phils' coffin
(9/6/2009) Kaz Matsui hit a bases-loaded single off Brad Lidge to drive in two runs in the bottom of the ninth and lift Houston over Philadelphia 5-4 Saturday.
K. Matsui having disastrous August
(8/25/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 0 for 2 at St. Louis on Tuesday. He's now batting .114 (4 for 35) over his last 10 games and .171 in August.
Matsui doubles twice vs. Florida
(8/12/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui hit two doubles on Wednesday in a 14-6 rout of the Marlins. He went 3 for 4 in the game with a run scored and a walk. His batting average improved to .251 with the performance.
Matsui homers against Giants
(8/3/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui homered to deep right field on Monday night in a win over the Giants. Matsui took Matt Cain deep in the 6th inning for a two-run shot. He finished 1 for 4 on the night and is batting .254 on the season.
Matsui follows three hits rare HR
(7/30/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 1 for 4 with a two-run home run Thursday at the Cubs. He went 3 for 3 a day earlier after opening the second half 8 for 40 (.200).
Matsui starts, drives in a run
(7/22/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was back in the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Cardinals in a 4-3 win. He went 2 for 4 in the game, driving in a run. He had left Tuesday's game with a right knee contusion sustained during an at-bat.
Matsui has right knee contusion
(7/22/2009) Houston 2B Kaz Matsui was hit in the knee with a pitch while batting in the fifth inning Tuesday against the Cardinals and the game was stopped for several minutes while trainers and manage Cecil Cooper checked him out. He finished his at-bat and remained in the game until leaving before the eighth with a right knee contusion. Cooper said he should be OK. He went 0 for 3 in the game.
Matsui returns to lineup
(7/20/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was able to play through his hamstring injury on Monday night against the Cardinals. Matsui went 0 for 3 in the game. He's hitting .252.
Matsui sits with hamstring issue
(7/19/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was not in the team's lineup on Sunday against the Dodgers due to a sore left hamstring. He is considered questionable for the team's upcoming series with the Cardinals beginning on Monday.
Matsui hits three-run home run
(7/12/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2 for 3 and homered on Sunday in a win over the Nationals. Matsui went yard for the third time this season in the final game before the All-Star break begins. The homer came in the 7th inning off starter Jordan Zimmermann and it was a big three-run blast. He's hitting .252 on the year.
K. Matsui trying to fix swing flaw
(7/8/2009) The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros 2B Kaz Matsui took early batting practice Tuesday in hopes of correcting a flaw in his swing that has resulted in an 0 for 17 slump. “Sometimes my body goes forward and my hands go up too early,” he said. “I’m trying to avoid that. I’m just going through that. Maybe I open up too quickly.”
Matsui homers against Tigers
(6/27/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui homered on Saturday in a win over the Tigers. Matsui went 2 for 4 in the game with his second bomb, a two-run shot. He's hitting .246 on the year.
Matsui returns to Astros
(6/16/2009) Houston Astros second baseman Kazuo Matsui has been activated from the 15-day disabled list, and infielder Geoff Blum has been placed on the DL. The Astros made the move before Tuesday night's game against the Texas Rangers. Matsui missed 18 games after he strained his left hamstring May 6. He played in four games in a minor league rehab assignment for Double-A Corpus Christi, and was in the Astros' lineup on Tuesday night.
Matsui expected back Tuesday
(6/13/2009) Houston INF Kazuo Matsui, on the 15-day DL with a strained right hamstring, was to play his third rehab game at Double-A Corpus Christi on Friday. He's scheduled to rejoin the Astros on Tuesday.
Matsui scores twice in rehab
(6/10/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 1-for-2 with a walk and two runs scored batting third for Double-A Corpus Christi on Wednesday in a rehab performance.
Matsui to begin rehab Wednesday
(6/10/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (strained hamstring) will play for Double-A Corpus Christi between Wednesday and Saturday and will likely rejoin the lineup next week. Matsui ran the bases at Minute Maid Park before Tuesday's game.
(6/8/2009) From The Sports Xchange: 2B Kaz Matsui, who is eligible to come off the disabled list Wednesday, continues improving on his right hamstring training. He has been taking ground balls and running since Thursday. "He looks like he's moving freely and it looks like things are coming along," Cecil Cooper said of Matsui. He will probably be out at least through Friday. "We won't rush him; that's for sure," Cooper said. "We've got some options so we don't need to rush him. We need him to be 100 percent when he comes back."
K. Matsui could begin rehab stint
(6/7/2009) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui (strained left hamstring) ran and took grounders again Sunday, and the Astros are considering sending him on a rehab assignment this week.
K. Matsui may return Week 10
(6/6/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui, on the disabled list since May 26 with a left hamstring strain, did some light running and fielded grounders before the game. He could return by the middle of next week.
Matsui makes another trip to DL
(5/29/2009) The Houston Astros placed second baseman Kazuo Matsui on the 15-day disabled list because of a strained right hamstring and purchased infielder Matt Kata's contract from Triple-A Round Rock on Friday night. The Astros made the move following a 6-1 victory over the Pirates in which Matsui's replacement, rookie Edwin Maysonet, homered while going 4-for-4 and driving in four runs.
Matsui sits again for Astros
(5/29/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (hamstring) was unable to play Friday against the Pirates. He has missed the last three games and remains questionable for the second game of the [ittsburgh series on Saturday.
Matsui may be back Friday
(5/27/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui (hamstring) didn't play, as expected, on Wednesday against the Reds. He was expected to take a few days off but could be in the lineup on Friday at Pittsburgh after sitting out the off day on Thursday.
Matsui to take a few days off
(5/26/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui is dealing with a sore hamstring and will get a few days off the team said on Tuesday before he sat out a game against the Reds. He'll be questionable for Wednesday's finale but isn't likely to play.
Matsui out without even batting
(5/21/2009) Houston's Kaz Matsui was out without batting in the first inning of the Astros' game with Milwaukee after the team presented an incorrect lineup card to umpire Eric Cooper. The official batting order submitted by the Astros before the game had Matsui batting first, but Michael Bourn led off instead. Manager Cecil Cooper said before the game that Bourn would lead off and Matsui would bat second, a flip-flop from Tuesday's order. Bourn singled to right off Yovani Gallardo, but the hit was nullified when Brewers manager Ken Macha showed the umpires the mistake. Matsui was called out while he was still in the on-deck circle and Bourn batted again, drawing a walk. Lance Berkman doubled to right-center to drive in Bourn and give Houston a 1-0 lead.
Matsui latest to steal home
(5/19/2009) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui became the latest player to steal home, doing it while Houston teammate Michael Bourn was in a rundown between first and second Tuesday night against the Milwaukee Brewers. Matsui led off the first inning with a double and advanced to third on Bourn's bunt single. With slugger Lance Berkman at the plate, Brewers pitcher Dave Bush made a pickoff throw to first that caught Bourn leaning toward second, putting him in a rundown. Matsui dashed to the plate and scored without a throw as the speedy Bourn, who stole home last week, scampered between first and second. After a couple of throws by the Brewers, he dove safely back to first. Bourn swiped home Thursday on the front end of a double steal with Carlos Lee in a 5-3 victory over Colorado. Rockies catcher Yorvit Torrealba threw to second in an attempt to get Lee. Boston's Jacoby Ellsbury and Philadelphia's Jayson Werth have also stolen home this season.
Matsui gets planned day off
(5/6/2009) From the The Sports Xchange: 2B Kaz Matsui, who has battled injuries the last two seasons with the Astros, was out of the lineup as part of manager Cecil Cooper's plan to keep his second baseman healthy. Matsui missed almost a week with back problems earlier this season after spending three stints on the disabled list last year.
Matsui drives in two runs
(5/4/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was caught stealing on Monday against the Nationals. Otherwise, he had a pretty good game. Matsui went 2-for-3 in the top spot for Houston as he doubled and drove in two runs. He also walked and scored twice. He's got his batting average up to .266 on the year.
Matsui steals two bases
(4/28/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui led off and went 3-for-5 against the Reds on Tuesday. Matsui singled three times, drove in two runs and scored twice. While on the base paths, Matsui stole twice. His average is up to .254 on the season.
Matsui returns with single
(4/20/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui's bad back finally was well enough to allow him to start on Monday against the Reds. Matsui led off and went 1-for-3 with a single. He's hitting .219 on the year.
Matsui expects to return Monday
(4/20/2009) From the The Sports Xchange: 2B Kaz Matsui was out of the starting lineup Sunday for the fifth consecutive game because of back stiffness. He entered as a pinch runner and stayed in the game on defense. Matsui said he expects to start Monday in the series finale against the Reds.
Matsui pinch runs, stays in field
(4/19/2009) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (stiff back) did not start on Sunday against the Reds. Matsui did pinch run and stay in the game at second base. He finished 0-for-1. He remains day to day for Monday against the Reds in the series finale.
Matsui sits with back stiffness
(4/18/2009) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui was unable to return to the Astros lineup on Saturday against the Reds due to lingering back tightness. He is considered questionable for the final two games of the series against the Reds.
Matsui out until at least Saturday
(4/16/2009) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui (stiff back) will be out until at least Saturday. He missed 19 games last season with a disk problem.
Astros' Matsui gets another day off
(4/16/2009) From the The Sports Xchange: 2B Kaz Matsui was out of the starting lineup for the first time this season Wednesday and Thursday. Manager Cecil Cooper has made it a goal this season to watch Matsui's playing time closely so he can protect him from injury a year after Matsui missed time because of anal fissures and an irritated disk over multiple DL stints.
Matsui day to day due to back
(4/14/2009) Kaz Matsui went hitless Monday for the first time this season, going 0-for-3 to drop his average to .214. The Houston Chronicle reports that he left the game with a stiff back.
(3/30/2009) Houston second baseman Kazuo Matsui finished 3-for-3 against the Phillies on Monday. He is hitting .197 this spring.
Astros want to keep Matsui healthier
(3/16/2009) Asked whether he thinks he can get 130 or more games from Kaz Matsui this season, manager Cecil Cooper crosses all the fingers he can on both his massive hands. "Well, yeah. You've got to be optimistic and I am," he said. "You have to take care of him right." That care includes a new back strengthening program the Astros have implemented to help him avoid back problems that bothered him before he came to Houston. Cooper also wants to be more in tune to not overplaying him when he is healthy and to giving him days off when he can -- which he says he didn't do enough last season. "When I got him back and he was playing well, going 3-for-4, you don't really want to take him out," Cooper said. "But I've got to do that regardless of what's going on. That's on me. I'm going to monitor it myself with the medical staff and we're going to do it regardless of what he says. We've just got to watch him."
Matsui knocks three hits Thurs.
(9/25/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui is heating up late. On Thursday, against the Reds, Matsui went 3-for-3 with a double and three RBI. He walked twice and scored twice. He's batting .299 on the year.
Matsui knocks three hits Thurs.
(9/25/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui is heating up late. On Thursday, against the Reds, Matsui went 3-for-3 with a double and three RBI. He walked twice and scored twice. He's batting .299 on the year.
Matsui steals 20th base Wed.
(9/24/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2-for-4 in the lead off spot on Wednesday in a win over the Reds. Matsui stole his 20th base and scored a run.
(9/23/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2-for-3 on Tuesday in a loss to the Reds. Matsui recorded Houston's only RBI as he hit his 6th home run.
K. Matsui shows he's still got it
(9/21/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui, who returned to the lineup Tuesday after missing more than a month with a back injury, doubled his hit total since his return, going 3-for-5 with a run scored Saturday at Pittsburgh.
Matsui finally in lineup on Wed.
(9/17/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui returned to the starting lineup on Wednesday at Florida for the first time since Sept. 2.
Matsui's return still delayed
(9/16/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back), who hasn't played since coming off the DL on Sept. 2, didn't return for Tuesday's game at Florida.
K. Matsui not back in lineup Monday
(9/15/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back), who hasn't played since coming off the DL on Sept. 2, didn't return for Monday's game against the Cubs.
K. Matsui still not in the lineup
(9/14/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back), who hasn't played since coming off the DL on Sept. 2, didn't return for Sunday's game against the Cubs.
Hurricane delays K. Matsui's return
(9/12/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back), who hasn't played since coming off the DL on Sept. 2, won't get a chance to return until Sunday against the Cubs after Hurricane Ike postponed Friday's and Saturday's games.
Matsui still out of lineup Thurs.
(9/11/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back) did not return to the starting lineup Thursday against the Pirates. The second baseman has not played since being activated off the DL Sept. 2.
Matsui continues to sit idle
(9/11/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back) did not return to the starting lineup Wednesday against the Pirates. The second baseman has not played since being activated off the DL Sept. 2.
Matsui can't go Tuesday
(9/9/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui's back still did not allow him to play on Tuesday against the Pirates. He has not played since coming off the DL seven days ago.
K. Matsui remains out of the lineup
(9/9/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back), who took batting practice Friday, didn't return to the lineup Monday against the Pirates. He has not played since coming off the DL on Tuesday.
Matsui still out with back injury
(9/7/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui took early batting practice Friday afternoon before the Astros' opener at Coors Field, but the second baseman isn't ready to return to game action and did not play on Sunday at Colorado. He has not played since coming off the DL on Tuesday.
Matsui doesn't play on Saturday
(9/6/2008)Kazuo Matsui took early batting practice Friday afternoon before the Astros' opener at Coors Field, but the second baseman isn't ready to return to game action and did not play on Saturday against Colorado.
Matsui doesn't play Friday
(9/6/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back) did not return to the starting lineup Friday against the Rockies. He has not played since being activated off the 15-day DL Tuesday.
Astros activate Matsui from DL
(9/2/2008) The Astros activated second baseman Kaz Matsui from the 15-day disabled list Tuesday. Matsui was activated a few days early. He had been on the DL since Aug. 13 with an irritated disc in his lower back, and still needs a few more days before he is ready to play, manager Cecil Cooper said. Matsui, who has missed about a third of the season with various injuries, is expected to play this weekend at Colorado. The Astros, winners of six straight going into Tuesday's game against the Cubs, also recalled right-hander Alberto Arias and catcher J.R. Towles, and bought the contract of infielder Edwin Maysonet from Triple-A Round Rock.
Matsui on the verge of returning
(9/2/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui, on the 15-day disabled list since August 13 with an irritated disk in his back, went through pregame drills Monday. Manager Cecil Cooper is optimistic Matsui can return in the next few days.
Astros doubt Matsui is ready
(8/26/2008) Although Kazuo Matsui is eligible to come off the disabled list on Thursday, Astros manager Cecil Cooper isn't sure if his starting second baseman will be activated until rosters expand next Monday, according to the Houston Chronicle. "Thursday's his day, but I kind of doubt it," Cooper said. "Probably Monday, if I had to pick a day."
K. Matsui back on 15-day DL
(8/16/2008) The Astros placed second baseman Kazuo Matsui on the 15-day disabled list with an irritated disk in his back Saturday and purchased J.R. House's contract from Triple-A Round Rock.
Matsui headed for disabled list?
(8/16/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Kaz Matsui, who left Tuesday's game in the second inning with a sore lower back, missed his third consecutive game Friday with a sore back. Manager Cecil Cooper said there's a chance Matsui could be placed on the disabled list for the third time this year.
Matsui still out on Friday
(8/16/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui (back) did not start Friday against the Diamondbacks. He has missed the last three games and remains day to day.
Matsui could be back Friday
(8/15/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Kaz Matsui, who left Tuesday's game in the second inning with a sore lower back, missed his second consecutive game Thursday against the Giants. Matsui underwent an MRI on Wednesday that showed no structural damage, and manager Cecil Cooper expects him to play as early as Friday.
K. Matsui sits again Thursday
(8/14/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui sat for a second straight game Thursday as he continues to deal with a back problem.
Matsui takes a seat Wednesday
(8/13/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was not in the lineup Wednesday against the Giants after leaving Tuesday's game with a sore back. He remains day to day and questionable for Thursday's series finale.
Matsui leaves with back soreness
(8/13/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui left after two innings with a sore back Tuesday against the Giants. He was 0-for-1 before leaving.
K. Matsui hits in sixth straight
(8/10/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui went 2-for-5 with a double, RBI, stolen base and a run scored in Sunday's win over the Reds, extending his hit streak to six games.
(8/9/2008)The Sports Xchange notes Kazuo Matsui led off Friday's game against Cincinnati with his fifth homer of the season, and his second leadoff homer of the season. It was his eighth leadoff homer of his career.
(8/3/2008) Houston 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2-for-5 on Saturday night against the New York Mets. Matsui hit his fourth home run and also tripled. He's batting .284.
Matsui hits safely in last six
(7/30/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui singled twice and scored once in four at-bats Tuesday against the Reds. Matsui extended his hitting streak to six games. He is 7-for-24 (.292) with one homer, four RBI, three walks and one stolen base in that span.
Matsui homers, scores three runs Wed.
(7/23/2008) Houston second baseman Kazuo Matsui hit just his second home run of the season on Wednesday against the Pirates. Matsui had one hit in two at-bats and walked three times in the leadoff spot. He scored three runs and stole a base, as well.
K. Matsui heats up with three hits
(7/22/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 3-for-5 with a double and a stolen base Monday against the Pirates. He also score a run. He had gone 1-for-9 to begin the second half.
Matsui likes his two-hit games
(7/13/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui singled twice in five at-bats Sunday against the Nationals. Matsui has hit safely in all four games since coming off the DL Wednesday and has a five-game hitting streak dating back to June 22. He is 10-for-22 (.454) in that span.
Matsui comes off DL Wednesday
(7/9/2008) Houston Astros second baseman Kazuo Matsui was activated from the 15-day disabled list and was back in the starting lineup Wednesday night. Matsui, who had not played since June 22 because of a strained right hamstring, missed the past 15 games. Houston went 6-9 in those games, having lost seven of its past eight. Pitcher Chad Reineke was optioned to Triple-A Round Rock to make room on the 25-man roster for Matsui. Reineke had been recalled Tuesday in an effort to provide the Astros' bullpen with an extra arm in case of emergency. He did not pitch. Matsui began the season on the disabled list after signing as a free agent with Houston during the offseason. When he returned, the Astros won 12 of their next 18 after starting the season 6-10.
Matsui to come off DL Wednesday
(7/9/2008)The Sports Xchange reports Houston 2B Kaz Matsui will be activated from the 15-day disabled list for Wednesday's series finale against the Pirates. Matsui has been on the DL since June 23 with a strained right hamstring and has missed 30 games this year because of injury. Cooper said he would likely go back down to 12 pitchers because of Thursday's off day and the upcoming All-Star break.
Matsui may be activated Wednesday
(7/8/2008) Astros starting second baseman Kazuo Matsui is eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list Tuesday. He has not played since June 22 due to a strained right hamstring. Manager Cecil Cooper said Matsui "probably" would be activated Wednesday.
Matsui on target for Tuesday return
(7/5/2008)The Sports Xchange reports Astros 2B Kaz Matsui did some agility work on the field before Friday's game and appears to be on target to come off the disabled list Tuesday in Pittsburgh. He's been on the disabled list since June 23 with a strained right hamstring.
Matsui runs again Tuesday
(7/2/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Astros 2B Kaz Matsui, who is on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right hamstring, continued his quest to return off the disabled list. He ran for the first time Monday since landing on the DL, and he ran again Tuesday.
Matsui to DL; Newhan called up
(6/24/2008) The Houston Astros placed second baseman Kaz Matsui on the 15-day disabled list because of a strained right hamstring on Tuesday. Matsui was injured running to first base after hitting a grounder in the sixth inning of Houston's 3-2 win over Tampa Bay on Sunday. The Astros purchased the contract of David Newhan from Triple-A Round Rock to take his spot on the roster. Manager Cecil Cooper said Mark Loretta would likely get most of the starts in place of Matsui. He said Geoff Blum and Ty Wigginton could also fill in at second base. Cooper said he wasn't sure if Matsui's injury will keep him out past the 15 days. "We hope that's all it is," he said. "We'll see how things go. We'll just kind of go from day to day."
K. Matsui strains hamstring Sunday
(6/22/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros 2B Kaz Matsui left Sunday's game against the Rays with a strained hamstring. Matsui played six innings and went 2-for-3. He grounded out to shortstop in his final at-bat in the sixth inning, and Mark Loretta took over at second base. "I just had a little pain (after running to first)," Matsui said through a translator. "It's felt tight lately. I'll have to wait and see how it feels tomorrow."
Kaz drives in three against O's
(6/17/2008) Houston lost to Baltimore Tuesday, 6-5, but it wasn't for the effort of Kazuo Matsui. Matsui went 1-for-4 on the night with three RBI on a double. He's batting .277 on the year.
Matsui goes 4-for-4 for Houston
(6/3/2008) Houston second baseman Kaz Matsui was the hitting star for the Astros in their 2-0 win over Pittsburgh Tuesday. Matsui went 4-for-4 with two runs scored to raise his average to .278 on the year.
Matsui pops slump with three hits
(5/27/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui, mired in a 4-for-26 (.154) slump over his last seven games, went 3-for-5 Tuesday at St. Louis. He scored two runs.
K. Matsui stuck in slump
(5/27/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Astros 2B Kaz Matsui has hit .154 (4-for-26) in his previous seven games.
Matsui rattles off three hits
(5/15/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui had three hits, including his eighth double, one run and one walk in four at-bats Thursday against the Giants. He extended his hitting streak to six games (9-for-25). He has one RBI and five walks in that span.
K. Matsui gets fourth career multi-steal game
(5/8/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Astros 2B Kaz Matsui stole two bases Wednesday, giving him four career multi-steal games. The last time he stole more than one base in a game was April 6, 2007, at San Diego for the Colorado Rockies.
K. Matsui has nice all-around game
(5/4/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2-for-2 with two runs scored, two walks and a stolen base Saturday in a 6-2 win over the Brewers on Saturday.
Kaz Matsui bats leadoff Sunday
(4/28/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Astros manager Cecil Cooper put Kazuo Matsui in the leadoff spot and moved Michael Bourn to the second spot in the lineup Sunday, one day after Bourn returned to the starting lineup from a groin injury. Bourn had led off in all the games he started until Sunday, but it's unclear whether this new setup is going to remain this way. "Do I have to have a rationale?" Cooper said. "I don't have one. I just pick 'em out of a hat. I don't have one. There is no rationale."
K. Matsui connects for first homer
(4/26/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui went 2-for-4 with a solo home run -- his first of the season -- Saturday at St. Louis, breaking out of a 2-for-10 stint over his last three games.
Tejada, Matsui extend streaks to five
(4/24/2008) Astros SS Miguel Tejada and 2B Kazuo Matsui extended their hit streak to five games Wednesday in a 9-3 win over the Reds. Tejada has nine hits in his last three games, while Matsui has seven hits and six RBI in his last four.
Matsui makes former team pay
(4/20/2008) Kaz Matsui closed out his first series against his former team with one clutch hit. Matsui hit a two-run single in the eighth inning and the Houston Astros beat the Colorado Rockies 6-4 to end a three-game skid. "You've got to go out and just play the game regardless," Matsui said through an interpreter. "At the same time, those are players I used to play with. So I was looking forward to this game." Hunter Pence led off the eighth with a single and Mark Loretta walked against reliever Brian Fuentes (0-1), who allowed a run for the first time in 10 appearances this season. Both runners moved up on an infield out to set up Matsui's hit. Matsui went 2-for-5, drove in two runs and scored twice.
(4/19/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui, who played for Colorado last year, was activated from the disabled list Friday and went 0-for-3 with two walks, a run scored and a strikeout against his former team. He also bobbled a grounder in the second inning, the Astros' sixth error of the season. To make room for Matsui on the roster, the Astros designated C Humberto Quintero for assignment.
Astros expect Matsui on Friday
(4/16/2008) MLB.com reports the Astros are expecting 2B Kazuo Matsui (15-day DL, hemorrhoids, back) to make his season debut Friday against the Rockies. Matsui began a second four-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock Tuesday. Matsui, who has been on the DL all season because of an anal fissure and saw his first rehab assignment delayed because of a sore back, had a RBI double in three at-bats against Oklahoma, the Rangers' Triple-A team. Matsui is scheduled to play seven innings on Wednesday and nine innings on Thursday. "We'll see him in Houston on Friday," Astros manager Cecil Cooper said. "If everything is a go on Friday, he'll play. He could also be a go on Saturday. It's about time for him to tee it up."
Matsui begins second rehab stint
(4/16/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui began a second four-game rehab assignment with Triple-A Round Rock Tuesday. Matsui, who has been on the DL all season because of an anal fissure and saw his first rehab assignment delayed because of a sore back, had a RBI double in three at-bats against Oklahoma, the Rangers' Triple-A team.
Matsui's debut delayed until Friday
(4/13/2008) MLB.com reports Astros GM Ed Wade said Sunday that 2B Kazuo Matsui will not make his season debut until Friday against the Rockies at the earliest. Matsui, who has been on the 15-day DL since spring training after undergoing a medical procedure to repair an anal fissure, saw his scheduled four-game rehab assignment end after two games when his back stiffened before Friday's game. "(Matsui) was examined by Dr. (Tom) Mehlhoff, and he's been cleared to resume his workouts," Wade said. "The plan is he'll work out (at Minute Maid Park on Monday) morning and then fly to Oklahoma City for a three-game rehab assignment (with Triple-A Round Rock) on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. If all goes well, hopefully he'll be reinstated next Friday."
K. Matsui hurt on rehab assignment
(4/12/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui, who is recovering from surgery to repair an anal fissure, was scratched from his rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi Friday with a sore back.
K. Matsui starts rehab assignment
(4/9/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui, on the disabled list after having surgery to repair an anal fissure, was 1-for-3 with a double in a rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi on Tuesday. He could return to Houston's lineup as soon as Sunday.
Kaz Matsui targets Week 3
(4/8/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Kaz Mastui (anal fissure) was cleared by team doctors Monday, and he'll play for Double-A Corpus Christi Tuesday in his first game of a minor-league rehab assignment. He'll work out with the Astros in Houston on Wednesday before going to Tulsa for Corpus Christi's next series Thursday. "I would like to think it's possible by Sunday's game (vs. FLA) he'll be back," general manager Ed Wade said. "But if everything goes in a straight line, you could be looking at Philadelphia on Tuesday."
Matsui might be ready for rehab
(4/4/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Kazuo Matsui (anal fissure) will be examined Monday in Houston, then go on a rehab assignment with Double-A Corpus Christi on Tuesday if he's cleared. “He’s scheduled to see the doctor on Monday,” Astros general manger Ed Wade said. “If the doctor gives him the green light then he’ll start a rehab assignment Tuesday in Corpus. Corpus is home Tuesday. Wednesday is an off-day for them, so he'll come back and work out with us and then rejoin Corpus probably for three days in Tulsa on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. If he’s ready to go at that point, we could reinstate him as early as Sunday (April 13) or the Philly trip beginning Tuesday (April 15). That’s the plan at this point.”
Kaz Matsui takes BP again
(4/3/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Kaz Matsui (hemorrhoids) took batting practice for the second day in a row Thursday. "He had a little more authority with his swings (Wednesday) from both sides actually and he came through it OK," manager Cecil Cooper said. "We're looking up. He's definitely making progress."
K. Matsui could start rehab next week
(4/3/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that 2B Kaz Matsui took batting practice on the field for a second day in a row Wednesday and could be ready to go out on a minor league rehab assignment as early as next week. "I would think he's probably on schedule or pretty close," manager Cecil Cooper said. "Maybe next week sometime he'll go out. He doesn't look like a guy who's been out for a long, long time."
Kaz Matsui takes batting practice
(4/2/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui took batting practice on the field Tuesday for the first time since undergoing surgery March 17 to repair an anal fissure, reports the Houston Chronicle. Matsui is expected to be out another 10 days.
Astros start Matsui on DL
(3/25/2008) The Astros optioned RHP Ryan Houston to Triple-A Round Rock, reassigned C Josh Johnson to Minor League camp and, most importantly, placed 2B Kazuo Matsui on the 15-day DL, retroactive to March 21. Mark Loretta and Geoff Blum will share at-bats at second for the Astros in Matsui's absence.
Kaz Matsui feeling better
(3/19/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Kaz Matsui's interpreter informed Astros GM Ed Wade that the Japanese second baseman is "feeling better" since he underwent surgery to repair an anal fissure.
Kaz Matsui has surgery Monday
(3/17/2008) The Houston Chronicle reports that Kaz Matsui underwent surgery Monday to repair an anal fissure, and he's expected to open the season on the 15-day disabled list.
Matsui needs surgery for fissure
(3/15/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui will undergo surgery to repair an anal fissure Monday in Houston. Matsui has struggled with the health problem for much of spring training and was diagnosed with the condition earlier this week. The expected recovery time after the surgery is two weeks. Although the season opener on March 31 is just more than two weeks away, manager Cecil Cooper wants to try and avoid placing Matsui on the disabled list. "We'll go down to the wire and see how he's progressing," Cooper said. "We want him on the roster and active so he can play."
Matsui deals with embarassing issue
(3/10/2008) MLB.com reports Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui is flying back to Florida from Houston Monday after receiving treatment for hemorrhoids. He is expected to rejoin the team Tuesday.
K. Matsui goes 3-for-3 in loss
(3/9/2008) Astros 2B Kaz Matsui went 3-for-3 with two doubles, two RBI, three runs scored and a stolen base in a 12-10 loss to the Nationals on Saturday.
Kazuo Matsui plays, goes hitless
(3/1/2008) Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui, sidelined Friday because of hemorrhoids, returned to the lineup Saturday against the Braves. He finished 0-for-3 with a strikeout.
Kaz Matsui scratched Friday
(2/29/2008) New Astros 2B Kazuo Matsui was a late scratch against the Indians Friday from the starting lineup because of hemorrhoids. He is expected to play Saturday against Atlanta.
Matsui penciled into No. 2 hole
(2/21/2008) GM Ed Wade said Kaz Matsui will bat second behind speedster Michael Bourn, giving the Astros two base-stealing threats at the top of the lineup. Matsui stole 32 bases last season, his highest total since 2002, when he still played for the Seibu Lions in Japan. "He's a prototypical No. 2 hitter," Wade said. "He can run, he knows how to advance runners, he'll bunt and play that game. Once in a while, he'll surprise you and hit one hard into the gap. Plus, the defense. His range is outstanding, his hands are outstanding. He'll make the plays there."
Astros, 2B Matsui finalize deal
(12/3/2007) Second baseman Kaz Matsui finalized a $16.5 million, three-year contract with the Houston Astros on Sunday, a little more than a month after helping the Colorado Rockies to their first World Series appearance. The 32-year-old switch-hitter batted .288 with four homers and 37 RBIs for Colorado. General manager Ed Wade said Matsui will likely bat second, behind speedy center fielder Michael Bourn, acquired last month from Philadelphia. "Kaz is an ideal fit for our club," Wade said. "Kaz runs extremely well. He steals bases, moves runners and takes the extra base. He plays the game the right way."
Report: Astros sign 2B Matsui
(11/30/2007) The Astros have reportedly agreed to terms with free-agent second baseman Kaz Matsui on a three-year, $15 million contract, according to MLB.com.
Rockies not bringing back Matsui
(11/30/2007) The Rockies have conceded free-agent second baseman Kaz Matsui won't be back. Matsui is being courted by the Cubs and Astros. The Rockies will look for a veteran second baseman at the winter meetings that begin Monday in Nashville, Tenn., although they have several in-house candidates including Jamey Carroll, Clint Barmes, Omar Quintanilla, Jeff Baker and Ian Stewart.
Matsui enjoys some payback
(10/23/2007) Cast off by the Mets after he was a major bust on Broadway, Kaz Matsui was rescued by the Rockies last season in a quiet trade. Now, he's a switch-hitting threat with speed who often bats second in the lineup. Matsui hit a key grand slam in the first round of the playoffs at Philadelphia and is batting .310 with eight RBI and two triples in the postseason.
Taveras, Matsui set table for Rockies
(10/22/2007) Willy Taveras led the majors with 37 bunt hits and 54 infield hits despite missing 66 games with an assortment of injuries. He combined with Kaz Matsui to produce the first 30-steal duo in Colorado since 1997. Matsui stole a career-high 32 bases in 36 attempts while hitting a career-best .288. He leads the Rockies with eight RBI and a .310 batting average in the playoffs.
(10/22/2007) The Rockies' big bats have mostly been quiet in the playoffs. Todd Helton (.154), Troy Tulowitzki (.179) and Garrett Atkins (.185) have struggled, as did Matt Holliday (.286) before busting out in the last two games of the NLCS. Kaz Matsui leads the Rockies in the playoffs with eight RBI, half of them on his grand slam in Game 2 of the division series. Yorvit Torrealba and Holliday have seven each.
Kaz Matsui belts grand slam
(10/4/2007) Done chasing that wild-card spot, Kaz Matsui and the relentless Colorado Rockies are playing like champs. Matsui hit his first career grand slam and drove in five runs, leading the Rockies over the Philadelphia Phillies 10-5 Thursday for a 2-0 lead in their NL playoff series. Matsui connected for the grand slam off Kyle Lohse, rushed in to relieve struggling rookie Kyle Kendrick in the fourth inning.
Matsui makes second consecutive start
(9/21/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui made his second consecutive start on Friday. He returned Thursday from a right hamstring strain and went 3-for-3 against the Dodgers. That was his first start since Sept. 8. Manager Clint Hurdle said is keeping a close eye on Matsui. "We protected him (Thursday)," Hurdle said. "I just try to get a feeling as we go through the game, take his temperature throughout the game. By no means am I going to push him, to break him."
Matsui returns with three hits
(9/20/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui (hamstring) was back in the team's lineup Thursday against the Dodgers after not starting since Sept. 8. Matsui did enter Wednesday's game as a pinch runner in the eighth and stole his 31st base of the season. On Thursday, he had three singles in three at-bats. He also drew a walk.
Matsui close to returning
(9/20/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui is close to returning to the lineup. He's been out since straining his right hamstring on Sept. 8. Matsui entered Wednesday's game against the Dodgers as a pinch runner in the eighth and stole his 31st base of the season.
Kaz Matsui still not back for Rockies
(9/19/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui, out since Sept. 8 with a hamstring injury, remained out of the lineup in the second game of a doubleheader against the Dodgers on Tuesday. He took ground balls Saturday, but manager Clint Hurdle isn't sure when he'll be ready. "He seems to be making steps forward," Hurdle said.
Kaz Matsui still not in lineup
(9/18/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui, out since Sept. 8 with a hamstring injury, remained out of the lineup to open a doubleheader against the Dodgers on Tuesday. He took ground balls Saturday, but manager Clint Hurdle isn't sure when he'll be ready. "He seems to be making steps forward," Hurdle said.
Rockies unsure about Matsui's return
(9/15/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui took ground balls Saturday, but manager Clint Hurdle isn't sure when he'll be ready. Matsui has been hampered by a right hamstring strain. "He seems to be making steps forward," Hurdle said.
2B Matsui not ready yet
(9/15/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui (strained right hamstring) continued to sit out Friday as the Rockies returned home to host the Florida Marlins.
Matsui might take grounders Thursday
(9/13/2007)The Sports Xchange reports Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui (strained right hamstring) is taking batting practice and might take ground balls Thursday for the first time since he suffered the injury Saturday.
Matsui out with hammy strain
(9/11/2007) The Rockies are still without 2B Kaz Matsui (strained right hamstring). Manager Clint Hurdle said Matsui was being evaluated daily and would be back in the lineup as soon as "he can go out and do a good job."
K. Matsui out for "a few days"
(9/10/2007) Colorado will be without OF Willy Taveras (strained right quad) and 2B Kaz Matsui (strained right hamstring) for an unknown amount of time. Both were injured on different plays in the eighth inning Saturday. "Kaz is down for a few days," Hurdle said. "Willy's out more than a few days."
Kaz Matsui pulled from game
(9/8/2007) Rockies OF Willy Taveras (strained right quad) and 2B Kaz Matsui (strained right hamstring) were taken out in the eighth inning Saturday against the Padres. Taveras was pulled after stealing a base and Matsui after hustling out a single.
Kaz Matsui homers Friday
(9/8/2007) Against San Diego Friday, 2B Kazuo Matsui hit his fourth homer, a two-run shot in the first inning that ended a 170 at-bat homerless drought since he last left the yard on July 8 against Philadelphia.
Kaz Matsui produces four hits
(8/29/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui connected for hits in all four of his official at-bats during Wednesday's game against the Giants. He had two singles and two doubles while also drawing one walk. He extended his hitting streak to seven games. He is 13-for-29 (.448) in that span.
Kaz Matsui doubles twice
(8/26/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui doubled twice in four at-bats during Sunday's game against the Nationals. He also walked once, scored a run and drove in one run. Matsui is 7-for-20 (.350) in his last five games.
Matsui gets Tuesday night off
(8/22/2007) Manager Clint Hurdle kept 3B Garrett Atkins and 2B Kaz Matsui out of the starting lineup Tuesday to let them get a breather and try to ignite the Rockies offense. "Just trying to juggle the lineup offensively. See if we could put a powder keg out there," Hurdle said. Atkins was 2-for-16 in the previous four games while Matsui had been hitless in 14 at-bats, dropping his average from .300 to .287. "It looks like he's a little tired right now," Hurdle said of Matsui. "His offensive game isn't what it's been, and we'll give him a chance to get a blow and recharge his batteries."
Kaz Matsui has 10 Aug. SBs
(8/21/2007) 2B Kazuo Matsui stole his 27th base of the season in the third against Pittsburgh Monday.
Matsui stealing bags for Rockies
(8/19/2007) Kaz Matsui's stolen base in the seventh inning was the 85th for the Rockies, matching last season's total with 40 games to spare.
Kaz Matsui's streak continues
(8/11/2007) 2B Kaz Matsui went 2-for-4 against the Cubs Friday to extend his hitting streak to eight games.
Kaz Matsui on multi-hit tear
(8/8/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui continued his hot August run with three more hits -- all singles -- Wednesday against the Brewers. He also plated a pair of runners, walked once, accounted for four runs and recorded his 20th stolen base. Matsui has multi-hit outings in five of six August games. He is 13-for-26 (.500) with three RBI in that span.
INF Matsui has pair of hits
(8/3/2007) Colorado trailed 3-2 when Kaz Matsui led off the top of the eighth inning with a bunt single against Armando Benitez (2-7). All-Star Matt Holliday followed with an opposite-field drive to the wall. "He hit a hanging slider," Benitez said. "Hey, what can I do? He got me."
Kaz Matsui will sit Tuesday
(7/30/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: 2B Kazuo Matsui, who generally starts against right-handed pitchers, wasn't in the lineup and won't be Tuesday when left-hander Scott Olson starts for Florida. Matsui, who entered the game in the seventh and had a single, has four hits in his last 30 at-bats and is 7-for-49 since the All-Star break. Manager Clint Hurdle said, "He's kind of spinning off the ball. He hasn't been able to get his foot down and get through the ball with his hands and the barrel. He's shown the ability to hit the ball hard the other way. That's been non-existent."
Two more hits for Kaz Matsui
(7/16/2007) Kaz Matsui had his 18th multi-hit game of the season against Milwaukee Sunday.
K. Matsui records 21st RBI
(7/8/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 2-for-4 with a solo home run during Sunday's game against the Phillies. He now has three homers and 21 RBI on the season. He is 12-for-29 (.414) with three RBI in his last six games.
(7/4/2007) 2B Kazuo Matsui, a late lineup replacement because Jamey Carroll had a sprained right wrist, enjoyed facing his old team, the Mets.
Matsui plays Staurday, nets hit
(6/23/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 1-for-4 with one run and one walk during Saturday's game against the Blue Jays. Matsui, who sat out Friday's game to rest his back, extended his hitting streak to eight games. He is 11-for-34 (.324) with one homer and four RBI during that stretch.
Matsui takes a day off
(6/22/2007) The Rockies chose to start Jamey Carroll at second base Friday in place of Kazuo Matsui, who got the night off.
Matsui adds game onto hit streak
(6/21/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 1-for-3 during Thursday's game against the Yankees. He extended his hitting streak to seven games. He is 10-for-30 (.333) with one homer and four RBI during that stretch.
Kaz plates a pair Wednesday
(6/21/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 1-for-4 with one triple and two RBI during Wednesday's game against the Yankees. He extended his hitting streak to six games. He is 9-for-27 (.333) with one homer and four RBI during that stretch.
Matsui pops second homer Sunday
(6/17/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 1-for-4 with a solo home run during Sunday's game against the Devil Rays. It was his second homer of the season. Matsui has now hit safely in all but one of 13 games in June.
Matsui collects three hits
(6/14/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 3-for-5 with one double during Thursday's game against the Red Sox. He has now hit safely in 10 of 11 June games. He has six multi-hit games during that stretch and has raised his average from .294 to .328.
Kaz Matsui sits Sunday
(6/11/2007) 2B Kazuo Matsui was out of the lineup Sunday, a concession to the back spasms that have bothered him in recent seasons. Manager Clint Hurdle said in light of the Rockies being off today he was able to give Matsui two full days off to try and avoid a flare-up. Matsui was sidelined with back problems when the Rockies acquired him from the Mets during the 2006 season and was on the disabled list for 33 games this season because of the back issues.
Mastsui doing well in June
(6/10/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 2-for-5 with one double and one RBI during Saturday's game against the Orioles to extend his hitting streak to eight games. He is 13-for-34 (.382) with one homer, six RBI and three stolen bases during that stretch.
Matsui drives in game-winner
(6/10/2007) Kazuo Matsui doubled in the tiebreaking run with two outs in the 10th inning of Colorado's 3-2 victory over the Orioles on Saturday.
Matsui pops homer, steals base
(6/7/2007) 2B Kaz Matsui ended a homerless drought of 89 at-bats dating back to Oct. 1 at Chicago when he hit his first homer of the season Wednesday. It was Matsui's first homer at Coors Field. He also stole a base and is 10-for-11 in steals this season.
2B Matsui delivers three RBI
(6/3/2007) Kaz Matsui hit a bases-loaded triple in the eighth to lead Colorado's comeback from a six-run deficit on Sunday against the Reds. Matsui finished 3-for-6 and two runs scored to go along with the three RBI (11).
Kaz Matsui gets a day off
(6/2/2007) Jamey Carroll got the start at second base against lefty Bobby Livingston, only the second time he has appeared in eight games.
Kaz Matsui sits on Friday
(6/2/2007) 2B Kaz Matsui was replaced in the starting lineup Friday night by INF Jamey Carroll.
Matsui a full-timer at second
(5/27/2007) Rockies manager Clint Hurdle plans to stick with a regular lineup for a while now that 2B Kazuo Matsui is healthy and back to playing regularly, saying he wanted to "give it some legs."
Kaz Matsui gets go-ahead RBI
(5/26/2007) Kaz Matsui didn't get the ball out of the infield his first four at-bats, including striking out with two runners on in the seventh. He changed his whole night his fifth time up. Matsui singled in the go-ahead run in the ninth inning and the Colorado Rockies beat the San Francisco Giants 5-3 on Friday night for their third straight win. "I put everything I had into that last at-bat," Matsui said through an interpreter. "Until then I was really frustrated. I just wanted to hit the ball."
Taveras, Matsui setting table
(5/23/2007) CF Willy Taveras and 2B Kazuo Matsui, who combined for five of Colorado's eight hits in the Rockies' 6-5 loss Monday while hitting 1-2 for the first time this season, were back at the top of the order against Diamondbacks RHP Livan Hernandez on Tuesday.
2B Matsui activated by Rockies
(3:04 am ET) In his first game back from the 15-day disabled list on Monday, Colorado's Kaz Matsui went 2-for-4 with three RBI at Arizona. "We won't overload him early," manager Clint Hurdle said.
Matsui begins rehab assignment
(5/20/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui went 2 for 3 with two singles and a walk and spent seven innings at second base in the first game of a Triple-A rehab assignment Saturday.
Matsui to begin rehab assigment
(5/19/2007) Kaz Matsui will join the Triple-A Sky Sox Saturday for a rehab assignment. Matsui has been out with back spasms since April 15.
Matsui headed to Triple-A rehab?
(5/16/2007) 2B Kaz Matsui played five innings and had six at-bats in an extended spring training game Tuesday after he played three innings and got four at-bats Monday. If Matsui's back withstands the work, he should join Triple-A Colorado Springs for a rehab assignment later this week.
2B Matsui begins rehab stint
(5/16/2007) Second baseman Kazuo Matsui, on the 15-day disabled list since April 15 with a back strain, played four innings in an extended spring training game on Monday and did some sliding drills. He was scheduled to play five innings Tuesday, and the game would be arranged so he can have six plate appearances.
Matsui will start rehab stint
(5/14/2007) Kaz Matsui (back) will begin a rehab assignment Monday.
Kaz Matsui close to return
(5/12/2007) Rockies INF Kaz Matsui said his back is close to fully healed. He's been out since April 15 with back spasms.
Matsui to be evaluated soon
(5/12/2007) The Rockies will make an evaluation of INF Kaz Matsui in the next few days to see how much his back has healed. Matsui has been on the disabled list since April 15. "His first stop will be extended spring for some game activity and then (Triple-A) Colorado Springs," manager Clint Hurdle said.
(5/11/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui (back spasms) took groundballs Thursday during batting practice for the first time since going on the disabled list April 15. Infield coach Mike Gallego said Matsui appeared to be a little stiff at the outset but moved well once he loosened up. Matsui took groundballs from a coach, and he also reacted well to a ball one of the players happened to hit to his backhand, Gallego said.
2B Matsui still unable to run
(5/7/2007) The Denver Post reports Kaz Matsui (back) has started to take fielding and batting practice, but he is still unable to run. He is reportedly at least a week away from starting a minor-league rehab assignment.
Quintanilla to work MI
(5/1/2007) Infielder Clint Barmes was optioned to Triple-A Colorado Springs on Tuesday by the Colorado Rockies and recalled infielder Omar Quintanilla from the minor league team. Barmes had been called up two weeks ago when second baseman Kazuo Matsui went on the 15-day disabled list with back spasms. Quintanillna will likely serve as a backup to Jamey Carroll and Troy Tulowitzki.
2B Matsui begins to swing bat
(4/28/2007) Rockies 2B Kazuo Matsui (lower back spasms) has begun a regime of swing a bat one handed, playing some light catch and jogging. "But we still don't have a timetable for him," manager Clint Hurdle said.
Matsui won't return this week
(4/22/2007) Rockies INF Kaz Matsui, on the 15-day DL since April 15 with back spasms, has started to lightly throw and walk on a treadmill. He won't make the trip back to New York to face his old team.
Matsui's back exam results due
(4/18/2007) The Rockies were still awaiting the results from an MRI exam taken on 2B Kaz Matsui, who went on the 15-day DL with back spasms.
Rockies place Matsui on DL
(4/15/2007) The Colorado Rockies placed infielder Kazuo Matsui on the 15-day disabled list Sunday because of back spasms. Matsui left Saturday night's game against Arizona in the bottom of the fifth inning. He had started the first 11 games of the season at second base. He was hitting .361 with three RBIs and had five stolen bases in five attempts. The Rockies called up infielder Clint Barmes from Triple-A Colorado Springs to take Matsui's roster spot.
Matsui leaves game with back spasms
(4/15/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui left Saturday's game in the bottom of the fifth with lower back spasms. He went 2-for-3 with a run to raise his average to .361 before leaving the game.
Kaz Matsui swipes another
(4/9/2007) Matsui was 0-for-4 with a run scored in Monday's game at L.A. Dodgers, snapping a modest four-game hitting streak to open the season. He was able to record his third stolen base of the year.
Kaz Matsui steals two bags
(4/7/2007) Kaz Matsui had three hits, two stolen bases, an RBI and a run scored at the Padres Friday night.
Kaz Matsui has nice day
(4/2/2007) Matsui went 2-for-4 with a walk, an RBI and a run scored against the D-Backs on Monday.
Three singles for Kaz Matsui
(3/22/2007) The Colorado Rockies are taking a cautious approach with Kaz Matsui's injured foot, and the results have been good so far. Matsui had three singles in the Rockies' 7-4 loss to Seattle Mariners on Wednesday. Matsui, the club's starting second baseman, had been out since March 12 with a strained left foot. He said he felt like it had healed, though he probably won't play in Thursday's game against Milwaukee. "I could play tomorrow. I've been trying to be in good condition," Matsui said through a translator. "I think Clint (Rockies manager Clint Hurdle) cares about my foot so he wants me to take a rest. But the next game, I will play. The icing and the treatment have got to be a lot less."
K. Matsui has strained foot
(3/15/2007) Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui has a strained foot and is day-to-day. He is hitting .250 this spring.
Kaz Matsui batting second
(3/2/2007) Manager Clint Hurdle is tinkering with the top of his lineup, putting switch-hitter Kazuo Matsui in the No. 2 spot behind newcomer Willy Taveras, who came over from Houston in the Jason Jennings trade. "It opens a hole up for Matsui," Hurdle said. "It gets a guy on base in front of him who can run. He might get a few more fastballs. We'll see how that plays out. Or if they want to throw the breaking ball, we've got a guy at first who can go."
Rockies willing to ignore Matsui's past
(2/25/2007) The Rockies are willing to ignore Kaz Matsui's two-plus years with the Mets. They saw potential in the six weeks he was with them at the end of last season, and they remember his All-Star status in his native Japan. In New York, he was a multi-million-dollar bust. From the day he arrived for that first spring workout in Port St. Lucie, Fla., three years ago, until the day last June that he was dealt to the Rockies for outfielder Eli Marrerro, Matsui never met the expectations of the Mets. With the Rockies, Matsui felt more himself. "Maybe he got caught up in the frenzy of trying to please too many people," Rockies manager Clint Hurdle said. "When we got him, we tried to make him aware of how his package fits into our organization. I give our players credit for letting him play and establish a comfort zone."
Rockies re-sign 2B Matsui
(11/13/2006) The Rockies signed free-agent SS Kazuo Matsui to a one-year contract. Once hailed as the next best player out of Japan, Matsui failed miserably with the Mets in just a little more than two seasons, so they traded him to Colorado. Matsui spent some time in the minors before getting recalled in August.
Free-agent filing continues
(11/1/2006) RHP LaTroy Hawkins, SS Alex Gonzalez, 2B Mark Loretta, 3B Aaron Boone, 2B Lou Merloni, OF Matt Stairs, C Paul Bako, 3B Tomas Perez, OF Carlos Lee, RHP Vicente Padilla, C Gregg Zaun, RHP Miguel Batista, SS Craig Counsell, SS Damion Easley, RHP Wade Miller, RHP Ryan Franklin, RHP Russ Springer, C Einar Diaz, RHP Aaron Sele, RHP Doug Brocail, RHP Woody Williams, C Robert Fick, OF Jose Guillen, LHP Bruce Chen, SS Alex Cora, RHP Jeff Nelson, LHP Ron Villone, OF Brian Jordan, 1B John Mabry, 3B Rich Aurilia, LHP Eddie Guardado, LHP Scott Schoeneweis, 2B Kaz Matsui, LHP Darren Oliver, SS Jose Hernandez and RHP Chan Ho Park.
Matsui less terrible in COL
(9/20/2006) Kaz Matsui went 2-for-6 and had two steals Tuesday.
Matsui hits rare homer
(9/18/2006) 2B Kazuo Matsui's homer Saturday night was the 12th of his career. Six have come leading off the first inning.
Kaz Matsui back in action
(9/10/2006) Rockies INF Kaz Matsui (thumb) returned to action on Sunday against Washington and went 2-for-4 with three RBI.
K. Matsui not in lineup
(9/9/2006) Rockies INF Kaz Matsui (thumb) was not in starting lineup Saturday vs. Washington.
K. Matsui takes batting practice
(9/9/2006) INF Kazuo Matsui took batting practice on Friday. He has missed two games with a sprained left thumb.
Matsui tries to make Mets pay
(8/30/2006) When told former Mets 2B Kazuo Matsui had taken full responsibility for his departure from the team, manager Willie Randolph said, "That was an honest assessment of how he felt. He came (to New York) with expectations and it didn't work out." Manager Clint Hurdle said Matsui wasn't in the lineup because his former team was in town. "I need to see what he can do," Hurdle said. "I have to take inventory." Hurdle had Matsui in the lineup for 2B Jamey Carroll, who is 2-for-23 over his past six games.
Matsui getting starts at SS
(8/27/2006) A day after getting a start at second base, middle infielder Kazuo Matsui was in the lineup at shortstop. "We wanted to run with a hot hand," Hurdle said of Matsui, who was 4-for-8 in his previous two previous games for Colorado. Clint Barmes has been relegated to the bench.
Matsui glad to back in bigs
(8/27/2006) Colorado's Kaz Matsui had three more hits Saturday and is 7-for-13 since being called up from Triple-A Colorado Springs last Tuesday.
(8/26/2006) 2B Kazuo Matsui got the start at second base against San Diego Friday. He made his Rockies debut at shortstop Wednesday at Milwaukee.
Matsui makes Coors debut at 2B
(8/26/2006) Kaz Matsui made his Coors Field debut at second base Friday against San Diego. He had two hits, two walks, stole a base and scored three runs.
Kaz Matsui starts at short
(8/24/2006) Kazuo Matsui started at shortstop in his Rockies debut after being recalled from Triple-A Colorado Springs on Tuesday. He was acquired from the New York Mets along with cash considerations for IF/OF Eli Marrero on June 9.
Rockies bring Matsui back up
(8/22/2006) The Rockies recalled 2B Kazuo Matsui from Triple-A Colorado Springs and designated UTL Jason Smith for assignment.
Matsui hitting leadoff in Triple-A
(8/14/2006) Kaz Matsui has batted leadoff for Triple-A Colorado Springs the past two games in order to get more at-bats. Matsui, who likely will get regular at-bats with the Rockies sometime during the final six weeks of the season, went 1-for-3 with an RBI on Sunday and is hitting .292 in 24 games with Colorado Springs.
Kaz Matsui still not playing
(7/23/2006) The Rockies placed Kaz Matsui at Triple-A Colorado Springs in June to help him regain his confidence after acquiring him from the Mets for utility man Eli Marrero, but a back strain has delayed the project. Matsui is easing into baseball activity, according to the Rockies.
Kaz Matsui has bulging disk
(7/6/2006) According to the Rocky Mountain News, Rockies 2B Kaz Matsui, who is currently with their Triple-A team, had an MRI on his back and has a bulging disk. The veteran, who was on fire while hitting for the Sky Sox, is on the minor league disabled list.
Matsui (back) leaves Colo. Springs
(6/22/2006) Rockies INF Kaz Matsui, acquired in a trade with the Mets two weeks ago, left his assignment with Triple-A Colorado Springs to seek treatment from the Rockies' medical staff for back spasms. The problem flared up Monday, and Rockies trainer Keith Dugger did not want Matsui travel with the Sky Sox with a balky back. Back spasms are not unusual for Matsui, who played extensively on AstroTurf during his career in Japan.
Matsui adjusting to life in minors
(6/17/2006) Kazuo Matsui settled into the cushions of a purple leather couch and stared around at his new surroundings. The clubhouse of the Colorado Springs Sky Sox -- the Triple-A team of the Colorado Rockies -- may not be spacious by major league standards, but it's going to be home for a while. Matsui, who was traded by the New York Mets to the Rockies on June 9, already has made quite an impression with his new team. "There's no doubt in my mind that this guy can be a star again," said Sky Sox manager Tom Runnells. The Rockies aren't sure who they're getting. They're hopeful it's the Matsui who was a seven-time All-Star and four-time Golden Glove recipient with the Seibu Lions in Japan. Matsui was once regarded as highly as Ichiro Suzuki of Seattle and Hideki Matsui of the New York Yankees. But the 30-year-old Kazuo Matsui never has come close to living up to his Japanese fame. In 239 games with the Mets over three seasons, he hit .256 with 11 home runs. "We want to see if we can relax him and get him in the right frame of mind," Colorado GM Dan O'Dowd said. One conversation was all it took for Matsui to earn a soft spot in Rockies manager Clint Hurdle's heart. "I asked him which way he felt he hit better, right or left," Hurdle said. "He said neither right now. I wanted to hug him right then and there because I love an honest man. I told him that's no problem, we'll work on that."
Kaz Matsui takes BP
(6/12/2006) INF Kaz Matsui, who was acquired in a trade with the New York Mets on Friday, took batting practice with the Rockies on Sunday.
Matsui gets vote of confidence
(6/11/2006) Manager Clint Hurdle cleared the air with newly acquired INF Kazuo Matsui in a Saturday phone call. "I made two points, that he would have the opportunity to make his own story and I wanted him to be comfortable with his own expectations and not worry about the expectations of others," he said.
Rockies happy to get Matsui
(6/10/2006) OF Jorge Piedra was the prime beneficiary of the trade that sent OF Eli Marrero to the New York Mets for INF Kazuo Matsui. "We wanted to get Jorge up and get a role for him," manager Clint Hurdle said. "The timing of the trade worked out for us."
Matsui shipped off to Rockies
(6/9/2006) The Mets traded slumping second baseman Kaz Matsui to the Rockies for utilityman Eli Marrero on Friday. "We're looking at it as a chance to get a guy who adds flexibility for us," Met assistant general manager John Ricco said. "By the same token it gives Kaz a chance to, with a change of scenery, maybe turn things around."
Kaz Matsui might be cut soon
(6/9/2006) The New York Post reports that when Xavier Nady (appendectomy) returns from the 15-day disabled list, the Mets might be forced to release Matsui or at least trade him, since rookie Lastings Milledge has played well enough to stay in the majors.
Kaz Matsui's status up in air
(6/1/2006) The New York Post reports that despite Valentin's production at the plate recently, Mets manager Willie Randoph has refused to call him the everyday guy at second base, although he did start there for the fourth straight game Wednesday against Arizona. "Kaz [Matsui] is still in the mix," Randolph said.
Kaz Matsui benched in Florida
(5/28/2006) Kaz Matsui, who is hitting .215 and has only two hits in his last 20 at-bats, was benched for Sunday's game. Jose Valentin took Matsui's place in the lineup.
Kaz Matsui goes 1-for-7
(5/24/2006) Matsui was 1-for-7 with a double, run scored and an RBI in Tuesday's marathon game against the Phillies which last 14 innings. He also struck out in the contest.
Matsui has 2B spot to himself
(5/23/2006) The Mets reinstated second baseman Anderson Hernandez (bulging disc) from the DL and optioned him to Triple-A Norfolk. This means Kaz Matsui will hold down the 2B job until injury or a trade (unlikely).
Kaz Matsui collects two RBI
(5/6/2006) Kaz Matsui went 1-for-5 Saturday vs. Atlanta with two RBI and a run scored. Matsui, hitting second for the Mets, is now hitting .250 in 55 at bats since coming off the disabled list.
Kaz Matsui back with a bang
(4/20/2006) Matsui (knee) was activated from the 15-day disabled list for Thursday's game at San Diego. He had an inside-the-park home run against starter Jake Peavy in his first at-bat of the season to get things going.
Mets plan to activate Kaz
(4/20/2006) The Mets plan to activate 2B Kaz Matsui in time for Thursday night's game in San Diego. "I expect Matsui to start our game in San Diego. He's been playing and he should be ready," manager Willie Randolph said.
Mets plan to activate Kaz
(4/19/2006) The Mets plan to activate 2B Kaz Matsui in time for Thursday night's game in San Diego.
Matsui hits double in rehab
(4/19/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui (knee) went 1-for-3 with a double in a rehab assignment at Triple-A Norfolk.
Kaz Matsui gets a hit Friday
(4/15/2006) The Bergen County Record reports that Kaz Matsui went 1-for-4 in a rehab stint with Class A St. Lucie Friday. He is scheduled to fly back to New York Saturday.
Matsui not first at second base
(4/15/2006) According to the New York Post, Mets manager Willie Randolph will use Kaz Matsui off the bench once he is able to return off the DL. "I doubt I'm going to just throw him right back in there," Willie Randolph said when asked about his plans for Matsui. "The kid [Anderson Hernandez] is playing well, so we're going to just see how things work."
(4/15/2006) Kaz Matsui went 1-for-4 and committed an error playing for the Class-A St. Lucie Mets. Matsui is rehabbing a sprained right knee.
Kaz Matsui plays Thursday
(4/14/2006) The New York Post reports that Matsui (right knee MCL sprain) played his first game for Class A St. Lucie Thursday.
Matsui still not playing field
(4/12/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui, on the DL with a sprained right knee, went 0-for-3 with a walk as a DH in an extended spring training game.
Matsui in extended spring camp
(4/11/2006) Kaz Matsui (right knee MCL sprain) went 2-for-4 with two singles and two stolen bases as a DH in an extended spring training game Monday. Although he is eligible to be activated from the disabled list, manager Willie Randolph said he is not ready.
Kaz Matsui still rehabbing
(4/10/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui is still in Port St. Lucie, Fla., at the Mets' spring training camp rehabbing his sprained right knee. Although he is eligible to be activated from the disabled list, manager Willie Randolph said he is not ready.
Kaz Matsui to start on DL
(3/28/2006) New York 2B Kaz Matsui, who began running on his sprained knee Sunday, will start the season on the DL. He remained at the Mets' spring training facility in Port St. Lucie, Fla., to rehab his sprained right knee. The earliest Matsui can play is April 8.
Kaz Matsui does light jogging
(3/27/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui, out three weeks with a knee injury, did some light jogging and hopes to start doing baseball-related exercises by the end of the week. The New York Post reported earlier that the Mets were going to go with Andreson Hernandez at second base instead of Matsui, partially because of the knee problem.
Mets passing on Matsui for 2B
(3/24/2006) According to the New York Post, the Mets now are all but set to go with Anderson Hernandez at second base to start the season instead of Kaz Matsui. With Matsui ticketed for the disabled list after a tepid beginning to his spring, Hernandez has emerged from an underwhelming cast and almost certainly will start when the Mets open their season a week from Monday at Shea Stadium, according to two people familiar with the organization's thinking. "I think we want to make sure with Anderson; we know a little bit of what [other second-base candidate Jeff] Keppinger can do defensively," GM Omar Minaya said. "We just want to see how Anderson does offensively. We know he can play defense. But we don't know how he does offensively, especially now with the better pitchers."
Kaz Matsui to return soon
(3/23/2006) On Wednesday, Mets manager Willie Randolph said injured 2B Kaz Matsui could be back "sooner than later."
Kaz Matsui out for opener
(3/17/2006) New York Mets second baseman Kaz Matsui is expected to miss opening day after injuring his right knee while sliding. Matsui hurt himself in the first inning of Thursday night's 6-5 win over Atlanta. He came up gimpy after hustling into second base, and took himself out the next inning. Matsui will not take part in any baseball activities for three weeks, the Mets said Friday. He'll be re-evaluated after that.
Matsui needs MRI on banged up knee
(3/17/2006) New York second baseman Kaz Matsui injured his right knee. After leading off the bottom of the first with a single to right, Matsui had to hesitate when Paul Lo Duca blooped a single in front of center fielder Michael Ryan. Matsui sprained his knee sliding into second base and came up gimpy. He took himself out after the next inning. "When I slid in, my right knee kind of stopped on the dirt and didn't really slide," Matsui said through an interpreter. "The pain is not that bad at all." He will have an MRI on Friday.
Matsui holds onto starting job
(3/13/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui appears to have held onto his job. With SS Jose Reyes playing for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, Matsui's primary competition for the job, Anderson Hernandez, has been mostly playing shortstop.
K. Matsui starting to see the light
(3/9/2006) Kaz Matsui, hitless in nine at-bats through Monday, produced a single and a two-run triple in his first two at-bats on Tuesday. He called his performance in the Mets' 7-1 victory against the Astros on Wednesday "really meaningful." According to MLB.com, Mets manager Willie Randolph has taken notice. "He had a nice game," Randolph said. "Maybe he's starting to feel a little comfortable. I told one of the coaches I thought Kaz had a little pep in his step. He had a nice [batting practice]."
K. Matsui finally gets a hit
(3/8/2006) Matsui , trying to hold the starting second base job, tripled to center field during a four-run fourth inning against the Astros Tuesday in a spring training game. "He had a nice game. I noticed he had more pep in his step," New York manager Willie Randolph said. Matsui was 0-for-9 entering the game, and 0-for-12 including the exhibition against Puerto Rico. He hit leadoff and went 2-for-5 with a run scored and two RBI. He's still only hitting .143 this spring, but hitters usually take a little longer to develop than pitchers. Matsui said the hits made it a "meaningful" game to him because it illustrated a good approach at the plate. "When you go up the middle it means you're doing enough right things at the plate," Matsui said. "I don't feel any pressure (about keeping my job), and that translates into being more comfortable. I just want to build on this."
Kaz gets razzed by retirees
(3/4/2006) According to the Bergen County Record, Kazuo Matsui was taunted by a "laid-back retirement" crowd on Friday when he butchered a ground ball and when he struck out in the third inning extending his preseason to 0-for-6.
Matsui's competition dwindles
(3/1/2006) With Bret Boone's retirement Wednesday, the Mets' second-base battle is now between Kaz Matsui, Anderson Hernandez and Jeff Keppinger. Matsui will need a solid spring training to retain the starting job at second base, a position manager Willie Randolph said is wide open.
K-Mat nearly takes Wagner deep
(2/24/2006) Second baseman Kaz Matsui nearly homered off Billy Wagner in batting practice. He batted in a group with Jose Reyes, Paul Lo Duca and Delgado, and Matsui was the only one to get a hit off the closer. "Being it's early, he probably just got lucky and walked into one," Willie Randolph joked.
Kaz Matsui fights for 2B job
(2/22/2006) The New York Times reports that Boone believes he will retire if he doesn't make the Mets' team as the starter at 2B out of spring training. He will not backup anyone or move to a different position. "When I start moving around positions, that's when I know it's time to really go home," Boone said. Boone will compete with Anderson Hernandez, Jeff Keppinger and Kaz Matsui for the starting job at second base.
Matsui working on his defense
(2/21/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui stopped by the clubhouse to collect six large duffel bags of equipment. He planned to practice outside camp Monday and Tuesday before returning to Tradition Field. The first full-squad workout is Thursday.
No takers for Kaz Matsui
(2/17/2006) Mets general manager Omar Minaya frequently said this winter that Kaz Matsui will be his second baseman and expressed confidence in the player. Privately, Minaya talked to just about everybody about dealing him, but even with the Mets willing to assume the bulk of his contract, there were no takers.
Kaz Matsui tries to remake himself
(1/25/2006) 2B Kaz Matsui said Willie Randolph told him he would speak with him when he arrives at spring training. Matsui said he had no idea whether he would remain with the Mets or be traded by opening day. He also said, given his two poor seasons in New York, he wasn't surprised Japan didn't include him on its preliminary roster for the World Baseball Classic.
Matsui has added competition
(1/5/2006) The Mets agreed Wednesday to a minor-league contract with Bret Boone. "I don't know if he could rebound, but to bring in a guy with his history on a minor-league contract, I figured, what is there to lose?" Mets GM Omar Minaya said. "There's something about Bret that I've always liked. He wants to prove that last year was not his year."
Mets shopping Kaz Matsui
(12/7/2005) New York also might like to trade disappointing second baseman Kaz Matsui and perhaps replace him with a free agent such as Mark Grudzielanek.
Mets call up 2B prospect
(9/17/2005) The New York Mets purchased infielder Anderson Hernandez's contract from Triple-A Norfolk Saturday. With the fading Mets all but out of contention in the NL wild-card race, Hernandez figures to get some playing time at second base the rest of the way and a chance to impress the team heading into next season. Matsui, on a career-best 12-game hitting streak, might be sidelined for a while because of a sore right hamstring, and utility player Chris Woodward is bothered by a stiff calf, prompting the Mets to bring up Hernandez. "We need bodies," manager Willie Randolph said. "He's here basically because Kaz got hurt."
Matsui in a platoon with Cairo?
(8/25/2005) The only position-player change for Wednesday's game was 2B Kazuo Matsui's second start in three games and 50th of the year to 57 for Miguel Cairo. "When I make my lineup card, I put whoever I feel has a chance to help us win that day. I try not to get too deep about it," manager Willie Randolph explained. He said Matsui profited from hard work while rehabilitating his bruised left knee from June 21 to Aug. 9.
(8/10/2005) The Mets activated Matsui (knee) from the 15-day disabled list on Tuesday. He was 1-for-1 with a run scored as a pinch hitter.
Kaz Matsui completes rehab
(8/8/2005) Matsui (knee) was 2-for-4 in the final game of a rehab assignment with Double-A Binghamton on Sunday.
Mets' Matsui due back in S.D.
(8/7/2005) 2B Kaz Matsui (knee) played for Double-A Binghamton in a 3-1 victory over Portland in the first game of a doubleheader. He was 1-for-2 with a run scored and a walk. He will play for Binghamton again Sunday and is expected to join the Mets next week in San Diego. Matsui has been on the DL since June 21.
Matsui's headed for Double-A
(8/4/2005) 2B Kaz Matsui, on the DL with a bruised left knee, is scheduled to play for Double-A Binghamton from Friday-Sunday.
Matsui chugging along at rehab
(7/31/2005) Kaz Matsui (bruised left knee) is 2-for-5 with a home run, three runs scored and three RBI in his first two games of a rehab assignment with the GCL Mets in rookie ball.
Kaz Matsui hits in GCL game
(7/30/2005) Injured 2B Kaz Matsui went 1-for-3 with a three-run homer and was hit by a pitch in his first rehab game with the Gulf Coast League Mets. After being the DH in that game, he hoped to play the field for the first time Friday. "I just like the fact that he's playing again," manager Willie Randolph said.
Mets' Matsui nears rehab stint
(7/28/2005) Kazuo Matsui, on the DL with a bruised knee, was scheduled to run the bases in Port St. Lucie, Fla. If all goes well, he could play in a rehab game this weekend.
Matsui nearing rehab assignment
(7/24/2005) 2B Kaz Matsui (bruised left knee) has started to run the bases. If he progresses well, he could begin a minor-league rehab assignment at the end of next week.
Kaz Matsui coming along slowly
(7/17/2005) Matsui (bruised left knee) continues to come along slowly in a rehab assignment with Class A St. Lucie.
Kaz Matsui placed on DL
(6/20/2005) The Mets placed Matsui on the 15-day disabled list on Monday due to a bruised left knee. The move is retroactive to June 17.
Kaz Matsui sits on Sunday
(6/19/2005) Matsui (knee) is not in the starting lineup for Sunday's series finale at Seattle.
Kaz Matsui doesn't start
(6/18/2005) Matsui (knee) was not in the starting lineup at Seattle Saturday.
Mets' Matsui sits Friday
(6/17/2005) Kaz Matsui (knee) was not in Friday's starting lineup against the Mariners.
Kaz Matsui helped from field
(6/16/2005) Matsui suffered a bruised left knee when Jason Kendall came into second base spikes up on the final play of Thursday's game at Oakland. Kendall's leg came up and appeared to catch Matsui's knee. He was able to hang in and complete the double play.
Matsui losing time to Cairo
(6/1/2005) Although regular Kaz Matsui was apparently healthy Tuesday night, New York Mets manager Willie Randolph started Miguel Cairo at second base. Matsui has been booed consistently by Shea Stadium fans following a disappointing rookie year at shortstop. When Matsui sat out last week, Cairo filled in.
Mets' Matsui a risky start
(5/30/2005) Kaz Matsui (stiff neck) started at second base for the Mets, going 1-for-4 against the Marlins. Matsui took batting practice in the cage Saturday and reported he felt 100 percent. Mets manager Willie Randolph hopes Matsui is back to stay. "The real test is to see how he feels after the game," Randolph said. "He can give us a spark."
Matsui returns Sunday for Mets
(5/29/2005) Second baseman Kaz Matsui returned to the lineup Sunday for the Mets, going 1-for-4 against the Marlins. He had been sidelined by a stiff neck.
Kaz Matsui misses Saturday's game
(5/29/2005) Matsui (back) was unable to play at Florida Saturday.
Kaz Matsui out again Thurs.
(5/26/2005) Matsui (back) missed another game on Thursday in Florida due to his injury.
Matsui misses contest
(5/26/2005) Kaz Matsui (back) missed Wednesday's 3-0 loss to Atlanta. Miguel Cairo got the start in his absence.
Kaz Matsui out of the lineup
(5/24/2005) Matsui (back) is out of the starting lineup for the third straight game on Tuesday at Atlanta.
Kaz Matsui not in the lineup
(5/23/2005) Matsui (back) is out of the starting lineup for the second consecutive game on Monday at Atlanta.
Kaz Matsui expected back Monday
(5/23/2005) The New York Daily News reports Kaz Matsui also did not play after he was removed from Saturday's game with a strained trapezius muscle, but was availbale to pinch-hit Sunday. With the progress I've made since (Saturday) night, I think I'll be ready to come back (tonight in Atlanta)," Matsui said through an interpreter.
Kaz Matsui sits on Sunday
(11:04 pm ET) Matsui (back) was unable to start Sunday's game against the Yankees due to his strained upper back.
Kaz Matsui injures back
(5/21/2005) Matsui left Saturday's game against the Yankees with a strained upper back.
(4/18/2005) Matsui (eye) was able to start Sunday's game against the Marlins. He finished 0-for-3 with a strikeouts.
Kaz Matsui gets a day off
(4/15/2005) Matsui (eye) did not play in Friday's game against the Marlins.
Kaz Matsui sits on Thursday
(4/15/2005) The team's official website reports Matsui missed Thursday's game against Houston due to a scratched cornea.
Kaz Matsui's job secure for now
(4/11/2005) The New York Daily News reports that Matsui won't be unseated as the team's second baseman despite Miguel Cairo's 2-for-3 performance Sunday. "He's my second baseman and that's the way it's going to be," said manager Willie Randolph.
Kaz Matsui to play Thursday
(3/25/2005) Matsui (upper back soreness) was able to play in Thursday's spring game against Detroit. He was 1-for-3.
Kaz Matsui still sidelined
(3/22/2005) Matsui missed another spring game on Tuesday due to discomfort in his upper back.
Matsui battling back discomfort
(3/21/2005) Mets' second baseman Kaz Matsui was held out for the second consecutive day Sunday due to upper back discomfort. "I think we're going to give him an extra day. We're just going to be conservative with him," GM Omar Minaya said.
Matsui opens strong at second base
(3/3/2005) Kaz Matsui was probably the biggest bright spot of the Mets spring training opener vs. the Nationals on Wednesday. Shifted to second base after committing 23 errors in only 110 games at shortstop last season, he looked comfortable on the right side of the diamond and even handled a couple of difficult chances. "Those are the plays you don't draw up, but those are the plays you have to make as a second baseman," first-time manager Willie Randolph said.
Mets' Matsui to be trade bait?
(11/13/2004) The Mets have finally done the right thing and made Jose Reyes their shortstop. They are now rumored to be considering a trade for Alfonso Soriano, who is reportedly adamant to play second base. Mets exec Omar Minaya is saying Reyes is the foundation, so look for Matsui to be a piece of any Soriano deal to the Mets.
Kaz Matsui activated from DL
(9/24/2004) The Mets activated Kaz Matsui (back) from the 15-day disabled list on Friday. He is not starting Friday's game against the Cubs.
Matsui won't play in Montreal
(9/20/2004) Kaz Matsui (back) won't play on the artificial turf in Montreal this week, according to the New York Daily News.
Mets to shift Matsui to second
(9/16/2004) Mets owner Fred Wilpon officially confirmed that Kaz Matsui will shift from shortstop to second base for the 2005 season, according to the New York Daily News. "Next year, Matsui is going to play second base and Jose (Reyes) is going to play shortstop. And he's fine with that," Wilpon said in a conference call before Wednesday's game against the Braves. "He's taking ground balls at second base now. We had made a commitment to him and his agent that in the first year he was here we would not force an issue where we make him go off shortstop."
Matsui back in one week?
(9/15/2004) Kazuo Matsui (lower back strain) will make the trip to Pittsburgh this week and could be activated in time for the start of their series at Montreal, according to the New York Daily News. He fielded grounders at second base for the second day in a row on Tuesday, although the Mets still claim they don't want to shift his position just yet. "We'll see," general manager Jim Duquette said. "We said we don't want to do it. We'll take it day by day."
Kaz Matsui back next week?
(9/14/2004) The New York Daily News reports that Matsui (back) hopes to be back within a week.
Kaz Matsui gets cortisone shot
(9/9/2004) According to the New York Daily News, Kazuo Matsui (back spasms) received a cortisone shot on Wednesday. Manager Art Howe said this is a last-ditch effort to reduce inflammation to allow him to return this season.
Kaz Matsui still sore
(9/8/2004) According the New York Daily News, Kaz Matsui rejoined the Mets as a spectator on Tuesday. His back stiffens when he runs or takes grounders, but he still plans to return this season. "It's just tight," he said through an interpreter.
Mets' Matsui takes grounders
(8/29/2004) According to the New York Daily News, Kazuo Matsui (back) took grounders at both second base and shortstop on Saturday.
Kaz Matsui moves to second base
(8/24/2004) The New York Daily News reports that Matsui (back spasms) will begin the transformation to second base from shortstop once he is able to start taking ground balls again.
Mets shelve Matsui
(8/15/2004) Kaz Matsui was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Sunday. The move is retroactive to Aug 9.
Kaz Matsui unable to start
(8/14/2004) Matsui (back) was out of the starting lineup against Arizona Saturday.
Kaz Matsui sits again
(8/13/2004) Matsui (back) was not in the starting lineup Friday against Arizona. Joe McEwing got the start at shortstop, instead.
Mets' Matsui sits again
(8/12/2004) Kaz Matsui (back) was not in the starting lineup Thursday against the Astros. He has not played since Sunday.
Kaz Matsui remains sidelined
(8/11/2004) Matsui (back) was out of the starting lineup again on Wednesday against Houston.
Kaz Matsui still sidelined
(8/10/2004) Matsui (back) was out of the starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Astros.
Good news from Kaz Matsui's MRI
(8/10/2004) The New York Daily News reports that the MRI results on Matsui's sore back have come back negative.
(8/9/2004) Kazuo Matsui (back spasms) received a pain-killing shot before the Mets departed for New York on Sunday, according to the New York Daily News. It's possible he could end up on the disabled list. "We're not thinking about the DL," manager Art Howe said. "But obviously with the back it's something serious."
Mets' Matsui leaves Sunday's game
(8/8/2004) Kaz Matsui was forced to leave Sunday's game against the Cardinals because of back spasms.
Kaz Matsui returns to lineup
(8/6/2004) Matsui (ankle) was back in the starting lineup Friday against the Cardinals. He missed the last three games.
Kaz Matsui misses third straight
(8/5/2004) Matsui (ankle) remained out of the starting lineup Thursday against Milwaukee. He has missed the last three games.
Kaz Matsui sits Wednesday
(8/5/2004) Matsui (ankle) missed his second consecutive game on Wednesday at Milwaukee.
Kaz Matsui out on Tuesday
(8/3/2004) Matsui was out of the starting lineup for Tuesday's game at Milwaukee due to an ankle injury.
Kaz Matsui has three hits
(7/22/2004) Matsui went 3-for-4 with his second triple on Thursday against Montreal. It was his 10th multi-hit game this month.
Kaz Matsui heating up
(7/8/2004) Matsui went 3-for-4 on Wednesday against Philadelphia. It was his third three-hit game in his past five contests.
Kaz Matsui launches two homers
(7/2/2004) Kaz Matsui had his best game since opening day on Friday against the Yankees. He connected for two home runs and five RBI, both career-highs.
Kaz Matsui continues streak
(6/12/2004) The New York Daily News reports that Matsui hit a pinch-hit single in the eighth inning of Friday's game at Kansas City. Counting games played in Japan, Matsui has played in 1,203 consecutive games. "He's whipped," said infield coach Matt Galante.
Kaz Matsui stealing more
(6/3/2004) Matsui has stolen six bases in his past 18 games and has not been caught at all. "I'm sending him more," Art Howe told the New York Post.
Kaz Matsui to wear glasses
(6/2/2004) The New York Post reports Kaz Matsui is experimenting with contacts and glasses. He is expected to try the glasses in the field in the near future.
Kaz Matsui to 2B?
(5/28/2004) The New York Post says the Mets are considering moving Kaz Matsui to second base next season, because his defense at shortstop has been disappointing this year.
Kaz Matsui hits fifth homer
(5/23/2004) Matsui went 2-for-3 with a homer and two runs scored against Colorado Sunday.
Kaz Matsui plays on Tuesday
(5/12/2004) Matsui (foot) was in the starting lineup on Tuesday after leaving Monday's game.
Mets' Matsui leaves game
(5/11/2004) Kaz Matsui left Monday's game in Arizona in the fourth inning after fouling a ball off of his foot earlier in the game.
Kaz Matsui looking better
(5/5/2004) Matsui had his first three-hit game since opening day on Tuesday after a doctor examined his sore right wrist earlier in the day.
Kaz Matsui's wrist an issue
(5/3/2004) Art Howe told the New York Daily News that Matsui's right wrist, which bothered him in spring training, has nagged him recently at the plate.
Kaz Matsui finally steals
(4/28/2004) Kazuo Matsui stole his first base as a Met on Wednesday.
Kaz Matsui is cooling off
(4/22/2004) Matsui has just four hits in his past 24 at-bats, and is 1-for-12 without a walk in New York's current series against Montreal. "They're throwing me all the pitches to the outside corner, and, obviously, I'm not adjusting to it," Matsui said.
Kazuo Matsui still playing well
(4/14/2004) Matsui has reached base in 18 of his 36 plate appearances (eight walks, five doubles, a home run and five singles) in his first six major-league games.
Kazuo Matsui has three hits
(4/7/2004) Matsui was 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles, a home run and three RBI in Tuesday's debut for the Mets.
Kaz Matsui to drop in order?
(4/2/2004)Newsday says Kazuo Matsui could be losing his grip on the leadoff job after an 0-for-4 performance on Thursday that lowered his spring average to .167. "It's not turning out right," Matsui said. "I know that I shouldn't be saying this at this time so soon before the season starts, but I have to make adjustments."
Kazuo Matsui plays Wednesday
(4/1/2004) Matsui (strained right wrist) returned to the lineup on Wednesday. He had one hit in five at-bats.
Kaz Matsui injures wrist
(3/30/2004) Matsui was scratched from Monday's game with a strained right wrist. X-rays were negative, according to the New York Daily News.
(3/28/2004) Matsui, given Saturday off to rest due to fatigue, was back in the lineup on Sunday. He was hitless in four at-bats and he made another error.
Kaz Matsui still adjusting
(3/26/2004) Matsui has hit .196 this spring while striking out 13 times. "It's going to take a little time," teammate Mike Cameron told the New York Post. [Matsui's a] switch hitter so it may help him a little. He can fly. He's just getting accustomed to backdoor breaking balls." Hitting coach Denny Walling is trying to get him to use the whole field and curb his penchanct for uppercutting from the left side. "I have a bad tendency to open up too soon and it becomes an uppercut," Matsui said. "And when I consciously try to fix it, I keep too low. When I try to hit it from the top, my body just falls forward. So it's a matter of balance."
Kaz Matsui out of lineup
(3/19/2004) The New York Daily News reports that Matsui (fingernail) was not in the lineup against Atlanta Thursday. It was basically just a rest day for the imported star.
Kazuo Matsui plays shortstop
(3/16/2004) Matsui (finger) made his first appearance of the spring at shortstop on Monday. He was 2-for-3 with a double and home run.
Kaz Matsui still not fielding
(3/15/2004) The New York Daily News says Kazuo Matsui's debut at shortstop still might be delayed. GM Jim Duquette said Matsui could play the field on Monday. but Matsui said he is only 60 percent recovered, and his first appearance in the field could be delayed. "It all depends if I want to go 100 percent or if I'm willing to go out at 70 percent or 80 percent," Matsui said. "Those are the kind of things I'm going to have to be concerned about. I still have difficulty throwing during cutoff plays. I can throw between short and first. It's not much of a problem."
Kaz Matsui on the mend
(3/11/2004) The New York Daily News says Kazuo Matsui (finger) might make his spring debut in the field this weekend, with appearances as a right-handed batter possibly coming sooner. "We're talking about a couple, three days down the road," infield coach Matt Galante said. "We're talking the weekend maybe. I don't want to put a date on it because we go day-by-day as he gets better, but we're talking a few days away."
Matsui debuts for Mets
(3/9/2004) Kazuo Matsui (finger) made his spring debut on Monday. He was 0-for-2 as the designated hitter.
Kazuo Matsui to debut Monday
(3/7/2004) The Mets petitioned the commissioner's office and received permission to use Matsui (lacerated fingertip) as the designated hitter on Monday against the Cardinals, despite it being a National League game.
Kazuo Matsui is swinging
(3/5/2004) The New York Daily News says Kazuo Matsui (finger) has started swinging a bat. He has been cleared to take grounders, but not throw.
Kazuo Matsui out a week
(2/29/2004) Matsui will be sidelined for a week after suffering an injury to a finger on his throwing hand during drills on Sunday. He required two stitches near the nail on his middle finger after being hit by a grounder. His fingertip was cut and the nail was bent back.
New Mets SS hits leadoff
(1/26/2004)Newsday notes Kazuo Matsui will hit leadoff for the Mets, with Jose Reyes slotted second. "He's got a complete game, the whole package. He has great hands and quickness. I'm looking for him to lead off and for Reyes to bat second. Two switch hitters with speed at the top. That's a lot of excitement," Art Howe said.
