Before 2001, there were questions whether a Japanese position player could cut it in the major leagues. Ichiro Suzuki won both the Rookie Of The Year and Most Valuable Player Awards that year, quieting critics with his blazing speed, cannon outfield arm and masterful hitting. The only thing Ichiro lacked was power.

Hideki Matsui proved that Japanese players can come over to the States and slug with the best of them. Perhaps Japan's strongest power hitter since Sadaharu Oh, Matsui won the MVP in 2002, his third time doing so, and just barely missed winning the Triple Crown.

As left fielder for the New York Yankees, Matsui proved to be one of the most reliable, consistent and professional players in the game. Every at bat Godzilla puts in is a tough out, and the man knows how to hit. In 2004, after a year of adjustment, that monsterous power emerged as well.

Teixeira, Matsui and Burnett help Yanks tie Series (Park Hills Daily Journal)
NEW YORK (AP) — Mark Teixeira and Hideki Matsui shook the New York Yankees from their lumber slumber and sent the World Series to Philadelphia all tied up.
Publ.Date : Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:37:56 GMT

CTB: Yankees more likely to sign Damon than Matsui (MSNBC)
Multiple sources have indicated that the Yankees would like to bring Johnny Damon back on a two-year deal, but Hideki Matsui's time in pinstripes is likely over as they would prefer to keep the DH slot open for Damon, Alex Rodriguez and Jorge Posada.
Publ.Date : Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:17:30 GMT

To Hang In, a Series Winner Must Learn to Let Go (New York Times)
Getting too attached to the players who won a title can prove costly for a championship team.
Publ.Date : Sun, 22 Nov 2009 17:06:13 GMT

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