An eight-year veteran, Matsui (no relation to Hideki) is one of the few Japanese switch-hitters and has been considered the country?s best all-around player since Ichiro?s exodus.

One scout says Matsui has the arm and range for shortstop but would be better suited for second base on a contender and might not have the patience to bat leadoff. "You might have to show patience with him at first," the scout says.

Another is more optimistic, claiming Matsui is a half-step faster than Ichiro (now considered the fastest player in the American League), has the instincts to steal bases and will have the punch to bat leadoff. The 1998 Pacific League MVP, Matsui hit .308-24-76 with 94 runs in 140 games this season.

--BaseballAmerica.com