Hideki Matsui

Hideki Matsui is an All-Star Left Fielder for the New York Yankees. He started his career in the Japanese Central League, than made the successful and highly publicized move to Major League Baseball. He has established himself as a fan favorite with Yankees fans, living up to the nick name of Godzilla with his consistent power numbers. He has also demonstrated a flair for the dramatic with his ability to deliver in the clutch.

Fast Facts

1. Born: March 21, 2003
2. Birth Place: Neagari Ishikawa, Japan
3. Bats: Left
4. Throws: Right
5. Height: 6'2"
6. Weight: 210 lbs
7. Japanese league seasons: 10
8. 2003 signed with New York Yankees
9. All-Star selections: 2
10. 2006 HR, RBI: 8, 29
11. 2006 AVG: .302

Early Life

Hideki Matsui was born in Neagari, Ishikawa, Japan on June 12, 1974. He attended Siryo High School in Ishikawa. He was highly touted player in his youth for his impressive performances in National Baseball Tournaments and Amatuer games.

Pro Career

Matsui was drafted by the Yomiuri Giants out of High school, he would make his professional debut in 1993, and quickly establish himself as an exceptional power hitter. He would go on to win three Japanese Central League championships in 1996, 2000, and 2002 and leading the Giants to three Japan Series championships in 1994, 2000, and 2002. With his dominance of the Japanese Central League, it wasn't long before Major League Baseball teams would line up for his services. In a highly publicized bidding war the New York Yankees would win the rights to his services signing Matsui to a three year contract in 2003. He would make an impressive debut at Yankee Stadium by hitting a Grand Slam in his first game. He would go on to narrowly miss winning the Rookie of the Year award. In the following years he would establish himself as an excellent hitter with a potent balance of a strong batting average and impressive power numbers. He would earn his first all-star appearance in his sophomore year, and is now recognized as one of the best and consistent clutch hitters in the game today.

Hideki Matsui Timeline

• June 12, 1974 Born
• 1994 - 2002: Plays for Yomiuri Giants
• 2003: Signs with New York Yankees
• 2003: American League All-Star
• 2004: American League All-Star
• 2008: Marries

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