|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka got through a successful 40-pitch live bullpen session on Wednesday, according to WEEI.com. |
Our View: Matsuzaka has dealt with a few nagging injuries this spring, so Wednesday marks a nice step in his progression toward the 2010 season. He could appear in a spring training game as early as this Sunday.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka ended up not throwing batting practice this morning, though he did throw 19 pitches in the bullpen to Jason Varitek, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Matsuzaka's health was a nagging issue last season, and this spring we're seeing much of the same thing. At this point it seems like he'll be good to go by the start of the season, though health should definitely be a factor when you're considering whether or not to draft him.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to throw batting practice this morning, according to ESPN.com. |
Our View: Dice-K was supposed to face live hitters on Saturday but was scratched with a stiff neck. Hopefully he's able to make it out to the mound today, and we'll be sure to update you on how the session goes, assuming it actually happens.
|
|
|
|
| Updating an earlier item, Daisuke Matsuzaka will not face live hitters on Saturday after being scratched with a stiff neck, according to ESPN's Gordon Edes. Edes says there is "no way (he'll be) ready for the start of season." |
Our View: What a monumental disappointment. At this point, you really have to wonder about Matsuzaka's viability as a major league starting pitcher, especially in Boston. Needless to say, he's probably not worth a flier in most mixed formats for the time being.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will face live hitters on Saturday for the first time this spring, according to WEEI. |
Our View: If the session goes well, he should make his first in-game appearance by the end of next week. For the moment, it is unclear if he will be ready for opening day.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (back) looked good in a 65-pitch bullpen session on Sunday, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Matsuzaka is scheduled to throw a few more bullpen sessions before pitching in a minor league game on March 18. Continue to monitor his progress this spring, as he still has the potential to be a fine fantasy contributor despite last season's debacle.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka threw off a mound Saturday, according to ESPN. |
Our View: Dice-K had a light session, and will throw more aggressively on Sunday. He looks to be close to returning to the mound following his bout with a back ailment.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka played catch for the third straight day Wednesday, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Dice-K felt fine, and will advance to throwing from 120 feet tomorrow, hence pushing him one step closer to working from the mound. He has been dealing with a back ailment.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka threw 25 times from 60 feet and 90 feet, respectively, and afterward reported no soreness in his back, according to WEEI.com. |
Our View: Matsuzaka had been complaining about his back over the past few days, so it's nice to hear that he's feeling well. He'll continue to work through his usual throwing program as he works toward being ready for the start of the season.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is describing his current mysterious back injury as "fatigue," according to ESPN's Gordon Edes. |
Our View: Just Dice-K being Dice-K? Unfortunately, Matsuzaka looks primed and ready to continue his disappointment tour for a second-straight season. While it's not crazy to think he could be a mid-round steal in mixed league drafts, it would probably be best to avoid the temptation. He needs to prove he's healthy, and he needs to prove he can indeed throw strikes when a game is on the line.
|
|
|
|
| Updating an earlier report, Daisuke Matsuzaka is expected to miss the start of spring training due to a sore back, according to the Boston Herald. |
Our View: The ailment is not expected to prevent Dice-K from being ready for the start of the regular season though. He has been working very hard while trying to bounce back from his disappointing 2009 campaign, and apparently overexerted himself.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka reportedly missed a throwing session last week due to back tightness, according to ESPN. |
Our View: Dice-K was not present on the field today either, so his back may still be bothering him. If healthy, Matsuzaka will compete for the fourth or fifth spot in Boston's rotation, and will be aiming to bounce back from his disappointing 2009 campaign.
|
|
|
|
| The Red Sox have been impressed with a rededicated Daisuke Matsuzaka heading into spring training, according to The Sporting News. |
Our View: A groin strain spoiled his 2009 campaign, and he is working hard to get back on the good side of Boston. He reported to camp early, and the Sox are counting on him to serve as their No. 4 or 5 starter in the rotation. He will be worth targeting as a flier as he aims to bounce back with a solid season in 2010.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is "genuinely remorseful" for his disastrous 2009 season, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: In 12 starts last year, Dice-K went 4-6 with a 5.76 ERA and 1.87 WHIP. That was largely the result of a groin injury he hid, but a similar season, for any reason, in 2010 will be viewed as unacceptable by the Red Sox. That being said, he could be a very good buy-low candidate in most drafts this preseason.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka admitted that he suffered a leg injury while training for the World Baseball Classic last year, but decided to keep the ailment a secret, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: The injury altered Matsuzaka's mechanics, and led to his shoulder problem that landed him on the DL. Dice-K looks to be healthy for the 2010 campaign, and could potentially be a nice value pick in fantasy leagues while coming off a disappointing year.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to pitch in long relief if necessary on Sunday, according to the Providence Journal. If starter Clay Buchholz gets into trouble early, Dice-K is expected to take over. |
Our View: Good idea by the Sox here to have a plan just in case the youngstrt struggles in his outing today. The way Buchholz has been pitching as of late, we not see Dice-K at all tonight.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will work in Boston's bullpen in the ALDS against the Angels, according to WEEI.com. |
Our View: Dice-K allowed two or less earned runs in three of his last four starts of the regular season, but skipper Terry Francona decided to use him in the pen at the start of the playoffs. Francona added that he could potentially carry a big load, namely if No. 3 starter Clay Buchholz struggles.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka only allowed two earned runs on five hits over six innings in Friday's 6-2 win over the Indians at Fenway Park. He had three walks and fired seven strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K allowed two or less earned runs in three of his last four starts, and looks ready for the postseason.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched very well on Saturday, but his offense denied him a win. The Japanese import allowed just one run on six hits and five walks over seven innings in a 3-0 loss to the Yankees. |
Our View: Dice-K held the Yankees bruising lineup in check, but the five walks against just three strikeouts is troubling. He has walked nine in 18.1 innings since his return from the DL.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka picked up his second straight win on Sunday as the Red Sox defeated the Orioles 9-3. Dice-K went 5.1 innings and allowed three runs on eight hits while walking one and striking out five. |
Our View: Dice-K wasn't quite as solid today as he was in his last start, but this was still a fairly encouragng start. He is making his case to be the team's fourth starter in the playoffs, and he looks to be healthy and close to finding his old form.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka only surrendered three hits over six scoreless innings in Tuesday's 4-1 win over the Angels at Fenway Park. He had three walks with five strikeouts. |
Our View: This was a very encouraging outing for Dice-K, as he made his first start since June 19 following his bout with a strained right shoulder. He looks to be fine to consider for fantasy duty in his next trip to the hill.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been activated from the 60-day DL following his recovery from a strained right shoulder, according to the Sports Network. |
Our View: Dice-K will start tonight's game against Boston at Fenway Park. He will be making his first start since June 19, so fantasy owners should not be counting on him to have a strong outing in his return.
|
|
|
|
| Updating a previous report, the Boston Red Sox have announced that starting pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka will make his return to the rotation Tuesday night against the Angels, according to the Boston Globe. Matsuzaka will be on regular rest after pitching Wednesday in a Single-A playoff game, although he will be getting one extra day due to Monday's off-day. |
Our View: Dice-K looked very sharp in his last outing on Wednesday, and apparently the Sox are convinced he is ready to help out the rotation. He will be taking Paul Byrd's spot in the rotation on Tuesday, and it looks like he will stay in the rotation for the rest of the season, assuming he stays healthy. If his last start was any indication, he should be able to help out fantasy teams over the last few weeks.
|
|
|
|
| There's a good chance Daisuke Matsuzaka could return to the Red Sox rotation next week, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Dice-K pitched very well in a Single-A playoff game on Wednesday night, featuring lots of movement on all of his pitches while having his fastball consistently in the low nineties (90-93 MPH). His next day to pitch on regular rest would be Monday, but with the Sox being off that day he could start in journeyman Paul Byrd's place on Tuesday. The Sox don't need a fifth starter again until September 19th, however, and he may not pitch until then. Stay tuned.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka fared well in tonight's rehab start with Single-A Salem, as he only allowed one run on three hits over 6.2 innings, according to the Providence Journal. He issued one walk and fired seven strikeouts on 89 pitches. |
Our View: The source states that Matsuzaka's next outing will likely be with the Red Sox, and could potentially make a spot-start Tuesday or Wednesday in place of the ailing Tim Wakefield (back).
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (shoulder strain) will make his last rehab start Wednesday with Single-A Salem, according to MLB.com. He is scheduled to throw 90-100 pitches. |
Our View: Skipper Terry Francona noted that the plan is to get Dice-K deep into the game, and back into that type of setting. He could return to the Sox next week if he fares fine Wednesday.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka allowed five runs in just two innings during his Double-A rehab start on Sunday. |
Our View: Dice-K had looked good in previous rehab sessions, but the wheels came off in this one. It's poor timing too, considering the addition of Paul Byrd in the rotation and the day that he had on Sunday. Dice-K will have one more rehab start before rejoining the team, but it had better be a good one.
|
|
|
|
| MLB.com reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka's rehab start has been pushed back to Sunday, but he is on track to start for the Red Sox on September 9th. |
Our View: Dice-K has been more effective in his rehab starts lately and the Sox are going to get him back in the rotation. He will have two more outings before rejoining the big club.
|
|
|
|
| Updating an earlier report, Daisuke Matsuzaka fared well in Monday's rehab start in the Gulf Coast League, according to the Boston Globe. He fired four strikeouts over three innings, and only gave up one hit. |
Our View: Skipper Terry Francona was pleased with Matsuzaka's outing, and noted that he had good command of his breaking ball and fastball. He will make his next rehab start with Double-A Portland Thursday, and then advance to Triple-A Pawtucket September 3, barring a setback. He has been recovering from a strained shoulder.
|
|
|
|
| Updating a previous report, rehabbing righty Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to throw three innings in his rehab start in the Gulf Coast League on Monday, according to MLB.com. Matsuzaka is rehabbing a strained right shoulder. |
Our View: The team isn't going to push Dice-K too far today, and if he feels any fatigue or discomfort they won't hesitate to pull him early. If he makes it through the start with no complications today, it would be a nice step forward in his recovery.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to pitch in the Gulf Coast League on Monday, according to MLB.com. Matsuzaka is trying to return from a strained right shoulder. |
Our View: This is a good step in Dice-K's return, and assuming things continue to go well he could be back in early September. If he is healthy, the Sox could surely use him in the rotation, but it is unclear at this point if he can return to his 2008 form. He would be a fantasy gamble when returns, but may be worth the risk if you are desperate for starting pitching.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is set for a bullpen session Friday, according to the Boston Globe. He has been recovering from a strained right shoulder. |
Our View: Dice-K will advance to a rehab assignment if he fares fine in his pen session. There is belief he could return to Boston at some point in early September.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (shoulder strain) threw 65 pitches during his second bullpen session Friday, according to the Boston Globe. He was able to throw all of his pitches without any issues. |
Our View: Dice-K will throw another pen session Monday. Skipper Terry Francona noted that he will throw four or five innings in his first start back with Boston, which looks to be in September, barring a setback.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (shoulder strain) threw 40 pitches during a bullpen session Tuesday, according to the Providence Journal. He fired all fastballs, and skipper Terry Francona noted that he had excellent control. |
Our View: Matsuzaka will throw 55 pitches in another session three days from now, and advance to 65 pitches after that, barring a setback. He is hopeful of returning to Boston at some point in early September, and is worth holding in fantasy leagues.
|
|
|
|
| MLB.com is reporting that Red Sox' starter Daisuke Matsuzaka will throw a 40-pitch bullpen session Tuesday in Fort Myers. If that goes well, he'll throw 50 pitches on Friday and then 60 pitches on Aug. 17. |
Our View: The Sox have Dice-K on a pretty solid schedule to build his arm strength back up, and assuming these sessions go well he could return to the team sometime in the next few weeks. Even if he does come back, he will have a lot to prove before he can be considered a good fantasy option.
|
|
|
|
| The Associated Press reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to make his first bullpen session since landing on the DL next Tuesday. |
Our View: Dice-K played catch from 60 feet on Wednesday and feels he's ready to move forward. The bullpen session will be his first time throwing off a mound since being placed on the DL June 21st.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, who is recovering from a strained shoulder, expects to return to the Red Sox this season, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: He played long toss today and threw from 60 feet off flat ground, with the intention of returning to the Sox before the end of the 2009 campaign. If he does return, it won't likely be before early September.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been transferred to the 60-day DL by the Red Sox, according to the Associated Press. |
Our View: So Matsuzaka now won't be eligible to return to Boston until August 18. He has been recovering from a strained right shoulder.
|
|
|
|
| MLB.com is reporting that Red Sox manager Terry Francona met with injured pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka on Friday and said the pitcher "looked great". Dice-K is expected to head to Fort Myers to continue his rehab from a right shoulder strain. |
Our View: There is still no timetable set for Dice-K's return to the team, but recent reports coming out of Boston have been positive. It seems like he could be back with the team in a few weeks, but the Sox aren't rushing him back at this point.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is "doing well" is his rehab from a right shoulder strain, according to the Providence Journal. |
Our View: This news is not surprising since many observers, including Dice-K himself, didn't think the righty was hurt to begin with. He is expected to be re-evaluated after the team's current road trip ends, and could rejoin them in a few weeks.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLB.com, the Red Sox don't plan to have starter Daisuke Matsuzaka for at least a few more weeks. Matsuzaka is still rehabbing from a right shoulder sprain. |
Our View: Manager Terry Francona wants to make sure Dice-K is fully recovered when he returns, and right now it looks like that won't be for at least a few more weeks. Dice-K will be a risky play upon his return, but if he can somehow find the form he showed last season, he could be a major contributor in the second half. We are still skeptical fantasy owners will get anything of value from Dice-K this season.
|
|
|
|
| According to MLB.com, the Red Sox have formulated a rehab plan for ailing starter Daisuke Matsuzaka. He will head to Fort Myers, Florida on Monday to begin strength training on his sore shoulder. |
Our View: The team is going to take it slow with Dice-K, and there is no timetable for his return. He's going to start playing catch from 60 feet and will progress from there. Don't expect him to contribute to fantasy rosters for a long time.
|
|
|
|
| Updating a previous report, Daisuke Matsuzaka has landed on the disabled list due to a mild shoulder strain, reports ESPN.com. |
Our View: Dice-K underwent an MRI that revealed no structural damage, but there is significant weakness in his throwing arm. Manager Terry Francona feels the issue stems from pitching in the World Baseball Classis this offseason. No word yet on how long Dice-K will be out.
|
|
|
|
| According to Amalie Benjamin's Twitter account, Daisuke Matsuzaka is headed for the disabled list once again. |
Our View: No word yet on what the injury is (poor pitching perhaps?), but the DL stint isn't supposed to be a two-week affair. Dice-K could be out for an extended amount of time. In a corresponding move, the Sox will call up Dusty Brown.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Boston Globe, Daisuke Matsuzaka's poor outing Friday night may land him in the bullpen. |
Our View: Dice-K has been brutal this season and Friday may have been his last chance to prove to the Red Sox that he has the stuff to remain in the rotation. With John Smoltz taking Matsuzaka's next turn in the rotation on Thursday, and the Sox blessed with a dearth of healthy, rotation ready arms, Dice-K appears to be the logical odd man out. The team has yet to make a public decision, but he seems destined for the pen. The move would severely affect his fantasy value.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was lit up for six earned runs on eight hits over a mere four innings in Friday's 8-2 loss to the Braves at Fenway Park. He had four walks and two strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K falls to 1-5, and has given up 15 earned runs over his last three starts. He will remain an unstable fantasy option for his next trip to the hill.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka gave up four earned runs on seven hits over a mere four innings in Saturday's 11-6 win at Philadelphia. He had one walk and three strikeouts, and was tagged for two homers. |
Our View: Dice-K takes a no-decision, and his ERA climbs to 7.55. He only has one win over seven starts, and remains a disappointment among fantasy hurlers.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka continued his flat performance this season with another shaky outing on Sunday. He allowed ten hits and five runs over just 5.2 innings and was handed his fourth loss of the season. |
Our View: Dice K's ERA now stands at 7.33 on the season and he has yet to record a single quality start. Even though he struck out eight today without walking a batter, he's been one of the bigger fantasy busts in the game this season and might be better served on your bench.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka enjoyed a solid outing in Tuesday's 5-1 win at Detroit, as he only allowed one earned run on six hits over five innings. He issued three walks but fired six strikeouts. |
Our View: It was a solid outing for Dice-K despite only lasting five innings. He earned his first win of 2009, and his fantasy stock will continue to go back up.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka dropped to 0-3 on the year after his team's 4-2 loss to the Twins on Wednesday. Matsuzaka went five innings and allowed three runs on nine hits while walking three and striking out six. |
Our View: Dice-K was a little bit better tonight than in his last start, but he was far from the dominant pitcher we have come to expect. He should get better as the season wears on, but right now he is just an average fantasy pitcher.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka allowed four runs in five innings as the Red Sox fell 5-3 to the Mets on Friday. He allowed seven base runners while striking out four hitters and fell to 0-2 on the season. |
Our View: Dice-K just came off the DL today, and he was not very effective in his first outing. We doubt that he is suddenly becoming an ineffective starter, but he has looked pretty rough through three starts.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been activated from the DL, following his bout with shoulder fatigue. He is scheduled to pitch against Johan Santana and the Mets on Friday night. |
Our View: Through three minor league rehab starts, Dice-K has posted a 1.54 ERA. He totaled a mere 6.1 innings in his first two innings earlier this season, but he has looked good in his rehab. He should be safe to insert into lineups for tonight's game.
|
|
|
|
| The Boston Herald is confirming previous reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka will be activated later this week and will start Friday for the Red Sox against the Mets in interleague play. |
Our View: Dice-K looked good in his rehab stint, and the Sox feel he is ready to go. Fantasy owners should feel free to activate him and start him on Friday, but don't be surprised if he struggles a bit to start off.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, who has been rehabbing from right arm fatigue, is nearing his return to the Red Sox, according to the Boston Globe. Manager Terry Francona said, "You can pretty much expect him to pitch for the big club this week." He fired nine strikeouts in his rehab outing Friday. |
Our View: Dice-K could return to the rotation next week when the Sox battle the Mets in interleague play. He will be worth penciling back into lineups upon his return.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Boston Globe, Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched five innings in a rehab start in Triple-A on Friday. He allowed two runs on three hits and a walk and struck out nine. |
Our View: Dice K seems to be figuring it out and will be back in Boston with the team when they return from their road trip. He threw 70 pitches on Friday (48 for strikes) and the nine Ks were an encouraging sign.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (arm fatigue) allowed four hits and two walks over four scoreless innings in his second rehab start with Triple-A Pawtucket Sunday, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: He pitched very well, and is slated for his next rehab start on Friday - which could his last before returning to Boston.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka reported no ill effects after his appearance on Tuesday, according to the Providence Journal. Dice-K will make at least one more start, possibly two, before returning to the rotation for the BoSox. |
Our View: Dice-K has a lot to prove this season, despite the fact that he won 18 games last season. He still walks far too many batters, and as a result of all the pitches he throws he rarely goes deep into games. Still, he should post strong strikeout totals with the chance for a good deal of wins pitching for the strong Red Sox squad.
|
|
|
|
| According to ESPN.com, Daisuke Matsuzaka had a strong minor league rehab start on Tuesday. He pitched 2.2 scoreless innings, allowed two walks and two hits and struck out five in the game. |
Our View: Dice K was on a strict pitch count, but everything about this start seemed positive. He topped out at 93 MPH and stayed consistently around 90, which is good news considering he was throwing in the mid to low 80s before landing on the DL. Twenty-nine of his 47 pitches in the game were thrown for strikes.
|
|
|
|
| According to the Providence Journal, Daisuke Matsuzaka will make his first rehab start in Triple-A Pawtucket on Tuesday. He has been on the DL with shoulder fatigue, and will be limited to 45-50 pitches in his first outing. |
Our View: It sounds like Dice-K is getting close to a return, but we will have to wait and see if the time off helps him regain his 2008 form. He will have to make more than one rehab start, so it will still be awhile before he returns.
|
|
|
|
| The Boston Globe reports that threw 47 pitches in a bullpen session on Wednesday after throwing long toss to loosen up. He should throw another bullpen on Saturday and then could begin a rehab assignment next week. The team feels like he will need more than one rehab start but Dice-K feels he will be back sooner from the shoulder fatigue that put him on the DL. |
Our View: Dice-K should be more effective when he does return as he has received ample rest for the fatigue that has plagued him. He was not himself in his first two starts and a lot of his fatigue has been attributed to his performances in the WBC.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka threw from 120 feet Monday and is expected to throw a bullpen session Wednesday, according to the Boston Globe. He is recovering from right arm fatigue. |
Our View: Manager Terry Francona noted that Matsuzaka could pitch in a minor league game before next Tuesday. He could be back in Boston's rotation by the end of May.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, on the DL with arm fatigue, will throw off the mound sometime early next week, according to the Red Sox Official Website. "Then, we'll get the next progression going," manager Terry Francona said. |
Our View: Dice-K will toss of the mound and then progress to a minor league rehab assignment to test out his arm strength. With the nebulous reports about the specificity of his injury, it's hard to predict just when he will be able to return to game action for the club.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, who is recovering from arm fatigue, threw 30 pitches from a distance of around 60 feet today, according to MLB.com. |
Our View: Dice-K will rest Thursday and resume throwing on Friday. There is no set timetable for his return to Boston, but he is expected to be out until at least mid-May.
|
|
|
|
| Coach Terry Francona reports that everything went well following Daisuke Matsuzaka's throwing session on Tuesday, according to the Providence Journal. It was the first time he has thrown in a week. He is currently on the DL with a fatigued shoulder. |
Our View: It's not certain when Dice-K will return to action, but you can expect the Red Sox to take their time with his rehab following Justin Masterson's strong start on Monday.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will play catch Tuesday while continuing he shoulder strengthening in the weight room, according to the Boston Globe. There is still no timetable set for his return to the Red Sox rotation. |
Our View: It's good for Dice-K owners that he has begun throwing again, but don't expect him back for a few weeks unless these strengthening sessions go better than expected. The Red Sox want to make sure he is fully healthy before they send him back to the mound.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will rest for the next few days in an attempt to ease the inflammation in his right shoulder and is expected to follow with a shoulder strengthening program after the inflammation dies down, according to the Boston Herald. |
Our View: The Red Sox have not set a timetable for Matsuzaka's return, though it is of note that last season's 18-game winner was out from May 27 until June 21, nearly a month, in 2008 when he was placed on the DL with a mild rotator cuff strain. Matsuzaka owners probably shouldn't expect a return for at least the next 15 to 20 days, though again, nothing is concrete at the moment.
|
|
|
|
| The Boston Globe is reporting that Daisuke Matsuzaka has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with a tired shoulder. |
Our View: Dice-K has been ineffective thus far in 2009, but on the bright side, the injury doesn't appear to be anything more than fatigue. He could be back and ready to go when his DL time is up.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has surrendered five walks and nine earned runs over 6.1 innings (two starts) this season, namely due to fatigue, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: He only lasted for 43 pitches (one inning) in his last outing, and has fatigue in his pitching arm stemming from the WBC. It is uncertain if he will need to miss his next scheduled start Sunday against Baltimore.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was obliterated by the A's on Tuesday night has he was yanked after one inning in which he allowed five runs on five hits and two walks. |
Our View: It usually takes a year or two for Major League hitters to figure out the delivery of a Japanese import, but once they do... look out. If that's what has happened with Matsuzaka, then fantasy owners are going to be very upset. Here's hoping this was just a rotten night.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka struggled in his season debut on Thursday against Tampa Bay. He surrendered nine hits and four runs in five and one-third innings in the Red Sox's 4-3 loss. |
Our View: Matsuzaka looked shaky during his abbreviated start, walking three and giving up three long balls in a matter of three innings.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka gave up just one hit but walked four in four shutout innings against the Mets on Saturday. |
Our View: Dice K is certainly prone to giving up the free base, but he is very good about keeping those runners from crossing the plate. Despite carrying a 5.05 BB/9 last season, he managed to keep his ERA at 2.90.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka allowed one earned run on two hits over five innings in Monday's 4-3 loss to the Braves, with three walks and two strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K should be headed for another solid campaign, but he really needs to cut down on his walks, as he issued 94 over 167.2 innings in 2008.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will be returning to Red Sox camp on Friday and will throw a bullpen session and not one inning of a minor league game as planned, according to the Providence Journal. He will throw five innings against the Braves on Monday. |
Our View: Dice-K was nasty last year against opposing hitters and helped fantasy owners in a number of key categories. 18 wins, over eight strikeouts per nine, and awesome number with runners in scoring position (.164 BA against). His walks are always an issue and his inning total is never going to be very high due to the amount of pitches he throws but a top-tier guy in a number of categories.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka scattered five hits and three walks while allowing two runs over 4.2 innings of work in Japan's 9-4 win over Team USA on Sunday. He struck out one, and allowed a solo home run to Brian Roberts. |
Our View: In typical Dice-K fashion, he was good enough for the win on Sunday. Few pitchers strand as many base runners as this crafty Red Sox hurler. With runners in scoring position in 2008, the opposition hit only .164 against him.
|
|
|
|
| The AP reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka earned the win in Japan's 14-2 victory over South Korea on Friday. He gave up two runs on a home run over four innings of work. He gave up four total hits. |
Our View: Dice-K was not dominant despite the mediocre opposition. Regardless, he always pitches to the moment - meaning he is st his best in the biggest moments.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka struggled in his WBC primer against Australia today, according to ESPN. He could not get into rhythm and surrendered two runs and five hits over 1.2 innings. Japan still beat Australia 11-2. |
Our View: Dice-K was off his game today, but his performance does not alter his fantasy stock. He has plenty of time to get on target.
|
|
|
|
| As expected, ace hurler Daisuke Matsuzaka has been named to Japan's team for the World Baseball Classic, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Japan won the inaugural WBC back in 2006 and will defend its title in the 2009 tournament which starts on March 5 in Tokyo. Notable players from Japan's professional leagues included on the team are hurlers Yu Darvish of the Nippon Ham Fighters and Hisashi Iwakuma of the Rakuten Eagles.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has confirmed that he will play for Japan in the World Baseball Classic next March, according to ESPN.com. The right-hander went 3-0 in the 2006 WBC with a 1.38 ERA. One of his wins came in the final against Cuba. |
Our View: Dice-K was the MVP of the 2006 tournament as Japan emerged victorious. The tournament could have an effect on some player's season as they figure to train much earlier in the winter than they usually do and then perform at a high level nearly a month before opening day.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka did not pitch well in his four innings of work in Game 5 of the ALCS, giving up three home runs and allowing five earned runs. |
Our View: Matsuzaka was bailed out by his teammates, who stormed back from a 7-0 deficit for a remarkable victory.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been slated to take the hill in Thursday's Game 5 of the ALCS against the Rays, according to ESPN. |
Our View: The Red Sox are on the verge of elimination as they trail 3-1 in the series, and want to go with Matsuzaka, who is the "ace"of the rotation, and only allowed three earned runs over 12 innings in the postseason.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka hurled seven scoreless innings, with only four hits allowed, in Friday's 2-0 win over the Rays in Game 1 of the ALCS at Tropicana Field, with four walks and nine strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K proved why he is the "ace" among a strong Boston pitching staff in tonight's dominant win. Josh Beckett will take the hill next in Game 2 as the Red Sox chase their third World Series in five years.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been slated to take the hill in Game 1 of the ALCS against the Rays, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Josh Beckett will follow him in Game 2, and Jon Lester will go in Game 3. Tim Wakefield will start Game 4, and Dice-K would start again in Game 5. Boston is aiming for a third World Series title in five years.
|
|
|
|
| In his final start before the playoffs, Daisuke Matsuzaka was only used for four innings, but it was long enough to absorb his third loss of the season. He allowed three Yankee runs, all on Xavier Nady's fourth inning home run. He allowed six baserunners and struck out five. |
Our View: Dice-K was an impressive 18-3 this season for the Red Sox. He finishes the season with a 2.90 ERA but has largely been overshadowed by the AL pitching performances of Cliff Lee, Francisco Rodriguez and Roy Halladay.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was scratched from his scheduled start Friday due to rain, but will take the hill today in the first game of a doubleheader against the Yankees, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Dice-K will be going for his 19th win of the season. He is unbeaten over four starts in September and has not lost since July 28 (against the Angels).
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been scratched from tonight's outing against the Yankees, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: The game has been delayed due to rain, and David Pauley will take Matsuzaka's spot when play resumes.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was outstanding for the Boston Red Sox on Sunday, throwing seven innings, giving up just two hits and shutting out the Blue Jays in Boston's 3-0 victory. |
Our View: Matsuzaka has now won each of his last two starts, going a combined 12 innings and allowing one earned run while striking out 13.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka recorded his 17th win on the year when the Red Sox beat the Rays 13-5. Dice-K went five innings only giving up one run on three hits. |
Our View: After a 5-0 August, Matsuzaka is 1-0 in three starts in September.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka hurled eight scoreless innings, with only two hits allowed, in Friday's 8-0 win over the White Sox at Fenway Park, with two walks and seven strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K nailed down his 16th win of the season, and trimmed his already strong ERA down to 2.82. He closed out August with a 5-0 record over six starts.
|
|
|
|
| The ERA of Boston hurler Daisuke Matsuzaka took a bit of a hit, as he allowed five earned runs in six innings while striking out eight in the Red Sox beat Toronto 6-5 in extra innings. |
Our View: The good news for fantasy owners is that Matsuzaka only walked one hitter, so his 5.47 BB/9 should recede a bit.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka needed 105 pitches to get through 5.0 innings on Tuesday, but the laboring effort didn't stop him from improving to 15-2. He allowed six hits and two runs against the Orioles. Matsuzaka walked five, struck out six, and mixed in a wild pitch. |
Our View: It wasn't the prettiest outing, but Dice-K got good run support and avoided the big inning. We'll take it.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka won his 14th game of the year, leading the Red Sox to a 10-0 stomping of the Rangers. The righty threw seven shutout innings while both walking and striking out five hitters. |
Our View: Matsuzaka now has a microscopic 1.29 ERA in August, and though he still walks too many people, he's won five of his last six starts.
|
|
|
|
| Boston RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka enjoyed another strong effort on the road this evening, maintaining a perfect road record to get the 6-2 win over the White Sox. Matsuzaka pitched eight innings, allowing just one run over four hits with three walks and four strikeouts. |
Our View: Matsuzaka improves to 13-2 with an ERA of 2.90, going 4-1 since his last no-decision finish on July 7th. He's allowed just three homers over that span with 15 combined walks and 28 total strikeouts.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka picked up his 12th win of the season on Sunday as he held the A's to two runs over six innings. Daisuke struck out eight on the day while walking only two batters. |
Our View: When Dice-K throws strikes, he is pretty much unbeatable. He still threw too many pitches to go deep needing 105 pitches to make it through six innings.
|
|
|
|
| Boston will send RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka to the hill against the Oakland A's today, putting young LHP Dallas Braden on the mound to duel with the Red Sox against their efforts to complete a three-game sweep of the west-coast opponent, according to the Miami Herald. |
Our View: Matsuzaka comes off his second loss of the season as the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim roughed him up for six runs and seven hits in five innings, dropping him to 11-2 on the year, while raising his earned run average to 3.04. Braden has never faced the Red Sox and is 2-1 with a 4.39 ERA on the season.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka suffered his second loss of the season on Monday against the Angels. He allowed six runs and couldn't get an out in the sixth before giving up home runs to Casey Kotchman and Torii Hunter. |
Our View: Dice-K's ERA swelled to 3.04. He pitched better than his numbers but he fell apart in the sixth. He had only allowed one run prior to that inning.
|
|
|
|
| Boston RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka enjoyed one of his more productive outings this season, giving his Red Sox the 4-0 win over Seattle. Matsuzaka pitched 7 1/3 innings to surrender two runs on five hits with three walks and six strikeouts. |
Our View: One of the best outings Dice has seen this season, getting his second consecutive win and his third over his last five starts. In fact, Dice now sits at 11-1 on the season.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka (10-1, 2.65 ERA) will start Tuesday, July 22, against the Seattle Mariners, according to MLB.com. |
Our View: Matsuzaka has been brilliant lately. He has only allowed one earned run in his last four starts combined. He is a must play in all fantasy leagues.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched six scoreless innings and the Boston Red Sox found their way back into first place in AL East. The Japanese import once again struggled with his command walking five in his 10th win of the season. , but worked around four hits and five walks. Jonathan Papelbon escaped in the ninth for his 28th save of the season and 100th of his career. lead going into the All-Star break, defeating the Baltimore Orioles 2-1 Sunday. |
Our View:
The Red Sox are now a half-game ahead of Tampa Bay, and took the division lead for the first time since June 28. How quickly can a team make up a ground? Boston was five games out of first place just last weekend.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched 7.1 shutout innings, allowing six hits, walking three and striking out five and the Red Sox defeated the Minnesota Twins 1-0 on Monday night. Hideki Okajima escaped a bases-loaded jam in the eighth to receive his second win of the season. |
Our View: Dice-K has now strung two strong performances together in his third start since returning from the disabled list.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka only allowed one earned run on two hits over five innings in a tough 7-6 loss to the upstart Rays, with five walks and five strikeouts. Boston led 2-1 when he exited the game, but ultimately ended his night with a no decision. |
Our View: Other than the five walks, he pitched great. He remains 9-1 for the season, and trimmed his ERA to 3.12, while only allowing one earned run over his last two starts.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka hurled five scoreless innings, with only two hits allowed, in Friday's 6-1 win over the Astros, with three walks and four strikeouts. |
Our View: Dice-K improves to 9-1 and lowered his ERA to 3.21. He was rocked for seven earned runs in his last start fresh off the DL, but he is now back in solid form, evidenced by tonight's performance.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka got rocked in his return to the Sox rotation Saturday, allowing seven runs on six hits and three walks in just one inning. |
Our View: Dice-K just looked horrible, leaving everything everything up and over the plate. He threw a ton of breaking stuff because his he had zero fastball command. Hopefully his rotator cuff isn't still bothering him and he'll correct his problems the next time out.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is fresh off the DL and set to return to the rotation today against the Cardinals, according to the Sports Network. |
Our View: This will be his first start in nearly a month, as he has been brought down by a mild right rotator cuff strain. The fantasy ace hurler should return to your lineups today, and looks to pick up where he left off, as he holds a strong 8-0 mark with a 2.53 ERA over 11 starts.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, in his first game since straining his rotator cuff, allowed three hits and two runs against Triple-A Lehigh Valley, according to the Associated Press. Matsuzaka struck out five, walked one, and threw 47 of 65 pitches for strikes. |
Our View: Matsuzaka hopes to be able to face the Cardinals this weekend, and baring any unforeseen setbacks, it appears that he should be able to do just that.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is expected to come off the DL on June 21, the Boston Globe notes. The undefeated hurler will throw 75-80 pitches in a Triple-A rehab game on Tuesday. He is on the DL due to a mild right rotator cuff strain. |
Our View: Fantasy owners can tentatively plan on using Daisuke in their lineups next week. He will face the Cardinals when he returns next Saturday.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is expected to pitch in a minor league game next week, this according to Fox Sports. Dice-K is rehabbing from a sore shoulder. Matsuzaka threw on Friday before the start of Boston's series against the Cincinnati Reds, but it appears he will need one or two rehab starts. |
Our View: He's eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list any time, but skipper Terry Francona said Matsuzaka will pitch on Monday for Triple-A Pawtucket against the Philadelphia Phillies' Lehigh Valley team in Allentown, Pa. Matsuzaka will throw about 80 pitches. A second rehab is possible but no timetable has been defined for the Red Sox No. 2 starter.
|
|
|
|
| The Red Sox report RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka spent this afternoon in the bullpen throwing and manager Terry Francona says things "went well," according to the Providence Journal. |
Our View: The pitcher and manager will meet after the team's batting practice this evening to discuss plans for next week, hoping to get Dice-K into a some minor-league rehab starts. We will update as news becomes available.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka made 60 to 70 throws from 180 feet Monday, according to the Boston Herald. He is scheduled to play catch again today and then throw a bullpen session on Wednesday. Dice-K is recovering from a mild right rotator cuff strain. |
Our View: Dice-K should be back in the Sox rotation in the next week or so. We'll continue to monitor his progress.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka began throwing for the first time Saturday since being placed on the 15-day DL on May 30, according to MLB.com. Dice-K threw off flat ground after pitching coach John Farrell said he tested out of his shoulder strengthening regimen on Friday. Farrell said, "Tested out fine again Friday, so that means we've got clearance to initiate the throwing program. I think a lot of it will depend on how he progresses." He is recovering from a mild right rotator cuff strain.
|
Our View: He will begin throwing at 60-feet the first day, and then progress to long toss. There will be a minimum of one, but probably two, bullpen sessions before he returns to the Red Sox. Manager Terry Francona mentioned that he could get sent down for a rehab assignment with Triple-A Pawtuckett, but is yet to determine if that would be in Matsuzaka's best interest. He's scheduled to come off the DL on June 12.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will throw off flat ground Saturday, according to the AP. Dice-K has been on the disabled list since May 30 with a rotator cuff strain. |
Our View: Dice-K is coming to come off the DL when he's eligible on June 14th.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has started a strength program, according to the Boston Globe. He is recovering from a mild rotator cuff strain and stated, "Even though I might feel OK, the club has told me to rest up. I do feel bad being the only one getting rest on this team, dwelling on that isn't going to help me heal. I'm going to treat this as a mini-camp."
|
Our View: He hopes to be back in business by the time he comes off the DL on June 14.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was placed on the disabled list with a rotator cuff injury. Jeff Bailey, who was recalled from Pawtucket will be activated and join the team for the weekend series in Baltimore. |
Our View: An MRI revealed that Daisuke has no structural damage to his strained rotator cuff/deltoid. Justin Masterson will start on Tuesday for Dice, but who takes Sunday's start has not yet been decided.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will likely accompany the team to Baltimore tonight but will then go to Boston Friday to visit with team physician Dr. Thomas Gill and get a precautionary MRI in his right shoulder, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Dice-K underwent some baseline strength tests yesterday on his right shoulder, which went well. However, the Globe speculates that the righty is still likely to miss his next start. Justin Masterson or possibly Clay Buchholz would be the candidates to take Dice-K's spot.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka left his start on Tuesday night due to right shoulder "fatigue", The Providence Journal reports. "Even before I went up on the mound, I felt things were a little off in the bullpen," Matsuzaka explains. "I wouldn't go so far as to call it discomfort, but I wasn't at my best. I definitely felt there something wrong." The Red Sox aren't sure how much time the hurler will miss. |
Our View: We'll update Daisuke's status when more is known, but given how valuable Matsuzaka is to the club, we wouldn't be surprised if his next outing was skipped or pushed back.
|
|
|
|
| Boston starter RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka has left tonight's game against Seattle early with an apparent injury, according to the Boston Globe. |
Our View: Matsuzaka had gone to the mound to start the fifth inning, had thrown a few warmup pitches, and stopped. He left the field under his own power, but reports indicate he was clearly holding either his side or his lower back. We will update as news comes forth.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka survived another shaky performance on Thursday to run his record to a perfect 8-0. Dice-K allowed just three runs but he allowed six hits while issuing six free passes to the Royals. |
Our View: We keep warning you about Dice-K, yet he somehow continues to have success despite the fact that he just can't control where his pitches are going. Today it took him 118 pitches to get through 5.2 innings, and he now has a whopping 38 BB in 60 IP (5.70 BB/9). Unless he drastically cuts the free passes, his ratios are about to take a beating.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka remained unbeaten, holding Milwaukee to a pair of unearned runs pitching into the seventh inning and the Boston Red Sox beat the Brewers 5-3 on Saturday.
Matsuzaka, who won his seventh game of the season, gave up seven hits over 6.2 innings and tied the Angels' Joe Saunders for the AL lead in wins. |
Our View: Dice-K held the Brewers scoreless until two outs in the seventh, when Rickie Weeks reached on a fielding error and Mike Cameron homered to left.
|
|
|
|
| Boston RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka picked up his sixth win of the season as the Boston Red Sox used home runs and a strong pitching performance to put the Minnesota Twins in the loss column, 5-2. Matsuzaka pitched seven innings, allowing just two runs on six hits, walking three and striking out seven. |
Our View: Six wins in eight starts is impressive with two no-decisions coming in the other two. Dice continues to struggle a bit with control (30 walks on the season), but his 2.45 ERA shows he is getting the job done.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka won his fifth game of the year despite walking a career-high eight batters in five innings innings of work. Dice-K was nibbling for most of the five innings he pitched, but he didn't allow a hit until Curtis Granderson's two-out RBI single in the fourth which allowed the Sox to defeat the Tigers 6-3 on Monday night. |
Our View: Matsuzaka worked out of trouble the entire night. He didn't assist his fantasy owners in the WHIP category, but he lowered his ERA to 2.43 in the win.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will aim to remain unbeaten when the Red Sox battle the Tigers at Comerica Park tonight, according to MLB.com. Dice-K is currently 4-0 with a 2.52 ERA and 1.09 WHIP. He is 2-1 against the Tigers, and his loss came at Comerica Park, when he surrendered six runs over five innings last season. |
Our View: Dice-K is 19-12 in the Majors so far, and will duel with Jeremy Bonderman tonight, who is struggling in the early going this season. Dice-K also provides fantasy owners with strong strikeout totals, as he has 32 over 35.2 innings this season.
|
|
|
|
| The fans in Boston were treated to a night of pitching prowess from both teams at Fenway this evening, and they leave with the elation of winning behind the effort of ace Daisuke Matsuzaka . Dice-K completed seven innings, holding the Blue Jays scoreless with just two hits allowed. Matsuzaka walked two, struck out four, and in the end, he walked off the mound and left the park with no decision. |
Our View: The dual with Toronto starter Dustin McGowan was fought to the bitter end with the Sox emerging in the ninth as OF Manny Ramirez came across home plate on a single by Jason Varitek. Reliever Jonathan Papelbon picked up the win, but give due credit to Dice, putting forth is best outing of the season thus far.
|
|
|
|
| The Boston Red Sox report RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka will miss his scheduled start on Tuesday, instead penciled into the starting job on Wednesday when the Sox face the Toronto Blue Jays, according to MLB.com. Manager Terry Francona told reporters Dice threw a 50-pitch bullpen session at Fenway Park on Saturday as he continues to battle the flu, but the decision to push him back one day was simple. "(We want to) try and give him an extra day toward recovery," Francona said. |
Our View: As a result, Jon Lester will get the start on Tuesday in place of Dice, opening the three-game set against their AL East foes.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka, who was scratched from his Wednesday start due to a case of the flu, may not travel with the team on their upcoming road trip against the Rays, according to the Boston Globe. He is being examined by doctors this morning to determine how contagious he is. It seems to be more likely than not that Dice-K will be kept in Boston while the Red Sox head down to Tampa Bay tonight, since he's not scheduled to pitch on the trip.
|
Our View: You shouldn't be concerned if he misses the trip, as he won't miss a start. Some rest is all he really needs right now. This is the same illness that has taken down Jason Varitek, among others.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka has been scratched from his scheduled start on Wednesday due to the flu, according to MLB.com. In his place the team will start Jon Lester. |
Our View: Josh Beckett missed his start yesterday, so the Sox are certainly experiencing some serious issues with their starters. If either Beckett or Matszuaka are unable to go on Thursday, the Sox would likely have to call up someone to make the start.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will be looking to remain unbeaten in 2008, when he takes the hill tonight against the Angels, according to MLB.com. He is currently 4-0 with a 3.14 ERA. He started Game 2 of the 2007 American League Division Series against the Angels, and only lasted 4.2 innings, while giving up three earned runs on seven hits.
|
Our View: He also holds a 1.22 WHIP, while firing 28 strikeouts over 28.2 innings, and he should remain penciled into your fantasy rotation. He will duel with Jon Garland, who is 2-2 with a 4.81 ERA.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka moved to 4-0 on the season thanks to allowing the Rangers to score only three runs in 5.1 innings. Dice-K only struck out four batters but he also allowed only two BB and five hits on the night. |
Our View: Dice-K continues to do just enough to pick up the win each time out, even if he continues to allow a few more base runners than is ideal. He could easily improve upon last years 15 wins with that offense.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka can thank his teammates for his 3-0 record. The right-hander picked up a win on Sunday despite walking six batters and allowing five hits and four runs over five innings. His ERA rose to 2.70. |
Our View: That's the third time Daisuke has walked four or more batters in a game this season, which isn't a good sign. He was wild in his rookie season, too, but he has taken it to another level early in this campaign. Hopefully these walks are a temporary glitch.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is set to take the hill against Detroit today, according to the Kansas City Star. Dice-K is 1-0 so far this season, and he went 1-1 against Detroit in 2007, with a 4.50 ERA. He will face Kenny Rogers, who will be looking to give the Tigers their first win of 2008.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka hurled a gem Tuesday, holding the A's to one run on two hits and no walks while striking out nine. This comes a week after Matsuzaka's start in Japan against Oakland, which was not as successful. Dick-K is looking to prove this year that last season's second-half fade was a fluke, and he's off to a pretty good start. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka had a favorable outing despite a no decision in Boston's season opener against Oakland. He only allowed two runs on two hits (one solo home run to Mark Ellis) over five innings of work, with five walks and six strikeouts. The Red Sox held on to win 6-5, and hopefully he can limit his walks in his next outing. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka will still get in some work on Wednesday, even if the Red Sox don't take on the Blue Jays. Matsuzaka will work in a minor league game against the Twins, the Providence Journal reports. |
|
|
|
| Red Sox manager Terry Francona confirmed Monday that Daisuke Matsuzaka will start their season opener in Japan, while Jon Lester will get the nod for the second game, according to the Boston Globe. The Sox take off for Japan on Wednesday, and the season kicks off next Tuesday. It looks like Clay Buchholz and Tim Wakefield will start the Red Sox's next games on April 1 and April 2, respectively. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka's wife gave birth Saturday morning to their second child, according to the Boston Globe. Now that the baby has arrived, Dice-K should be all clear to head with the Red Sox to Japan for the opening games of the season. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka got rocked in his third spring start, according to Projo.com. He threw 28 pitches in the first inning and ended the day with three runs and three hits over three innings of work, with three walks. He did have five strikeouts however and Coach Francona stated, “When he made his pitches he was fine. We want to get his pitch count up, so he feels like he’s working, which he did a little too quick. When he didn’t make pitches he paid the price.”
|
|
|
|
| Red Sox manager Terry Francona said this morning that Daisuke Matsuzaka is expected to travel to Japan for their opening games, assuming his wife has no complications with her pregnancy, according to the Boston Globe. It's not clear if she will be induced, but the Sox had been concerned that he might not be able to make the trip, so this is great news. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was tipping his changeup in 2007, pitching coach John Farrell informs the Boston Globe. Thus, the hurler has been working to improve his technique this spring. "I spoke to a few pitchers that have good changeups as to the grip on the ball and as to form and things like that. I think I arranged that advice into my own style. But for now, it definitely feels good," Matsuzaka explains. Farrell adds that the changeup has turned into a "much more usable pitch." |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka and the Red Sox are scheduled to begin the regular season against the A's in his native Japan March 25 and 26. However, he could arrive late or miss the trip entirely if his pregnant wife goes into labor at the wrong time, according to the AP. "It’s one of those things you have to leave to nature, so I can’t say one way or another right now," Dice-K said through a translator Tuesday. His wife is due to give birth on March 19, which is the same day the team is slated to head to Japan. He allowed a single run over three innings during Tuesday's exhibition game, but time will tell whether he'll be with the Sox in Japan. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka is scheduled to make his spring debut Feb. 29 against the Twins at Hammond Stadium, notes the courant.com. Dice-K won't be traveling with the team to Tokyo when they open up the regular season with two games against the A's, March 25-26 -- unless the Dice-man's wife changes her childbirth schedule. The couple are expecting their second at that time. |
|
|
|
| It's possible Daisuke Matsuzaka won't be traveling with the Red Sox to Tokyo when the team opens up its regular season with two games against the A's on March 25-26. Dice-K's wife is due to give birth to the couple's second child around the time of the games, and she is expected to stay in Boston to deliver. Matsuzaka hasn't commented on the situation. "She's just in a very sort of delicate situation right now and I'd prefer not to answer any questions," he told the Boston Globe. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka won't make his next start until Saturday, according to the Boston Globe. He was originally slated to go on Wednesday. This move gives Dice-K another three days of rest, and it also lines him up to start Game 2 of the division series. It's unclear who will start in Matsuzaka's place on Wednesday. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was the tough-luck loser Wednesday at Tampa Bay, despite pitching reasonably well (six innings, two hits, two runs, four walks, eight strikeouts). He's only won one of his last five starts, though in four of those turns he's allowed two runs or less. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched five choppy innings at Texas Friday, battling nausea for most of the outing. He allowed seven hits and five runs (two homers), with three walks and six strikeouts. Matsuzaka nonetheless got his seventh win as the Red Sox piled up 10 runs of their own. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka altered his between-starts routine by having a bullpen session Sunday, two days after his previous start, the Boston Globe reports. He had been throwing his bullpen on his third day between starts. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was brilliant in his big-league debut on Thursday, holding the Royals to one run on six hits over seven innings while striking out 10. He walked only one, after walking 11 in 21 2/3 innings this spring. D-Mat earned the victory, as the Sox won 4-1. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka wrapped the spring with a 2.91 ERA over 21 2/3 innings. He allowed 11 hits and three homers, with 11 walks and 26 strikeouts. His first start is penciled in for Thursday at Kansas City. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was very sharp in his start against the Pirates Wednesday, allowing one run and one hit over 5 2/3 innings. Matsuzaka walked one and struck out seven.
|
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka was knocked around for six hits and four earned runs in four innings on Sunday in his second outing of the spring. Dice-K was jacked for two homers by non-roster players, as well. More telling will be how he responds during his next outing. |
|
|
|
| Facing big-league hitters for the first time this spring, Daisuke Matsuzaka threw three scoreless innings against the Marlins on Tuesday, allowing two hits and one walk while striking out three, according to the AP. He threw 31 of his 47 pitches for strikes, including throwing first-pitch strikes to 10 of the 12 hitters he faced. |
|
|
|
| Daisuke Matsuzaka made his spring debut on Friday, throwing two scoreless innings, allowing one hit and striking out three. |
|
|
|
| SI.com is reporting that Daisuke Matsuzaka and the Red Sox agreed to a six-year, $52 million deal on Wednesday. The deal reportedly contains escalator clauses that could bring it up to $60 million. The Sox will also pay $51 million to the Seibu Lions. |
|
|
|
| The Boston Herald reports that Daisuke Matsuzaka has joined Red Sox officials on owner John Henry's private plane for a flight back to Boston. Previously, Matsusaka's agent, Scott Boras, said that he would not allow his client to travel to Boston for a physical unless a contract had been agreed to. |
|
|
|
| The Boston Herald reports that the Red Sox' latest offer to Daisuke Matsuzaka is six years for $8 million per season. Matsuzaka's camp countered with six years for $11 million, an offer the Red Sox are mulling over. Midnight Thursday is the deadline, so there's still hope they can get a deal worked out. |
|
|
|
| The Red Sox intend to make a "record" offer to Daisuke Matsuzaka before the deadline hits Thursday at midnight, the Boston Globe reports. According to Boston GM Theo Epstein, the offer will be the largest ever given to a player who has never played in the big leagues, and the largest given to a Japanese player. Epstein and Red Sox CEO Larry Lucchino have flown to Southern California, unsolicited, for a meeting with Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras. "I think it's also fair to say we're on Scott Boras's doorstep because he hasn't negotiated with us so far," team owner John Henry said. "We're taking the fight directly to him to try to have a negotiation here." |
|
|
|
| Talks between the Red Sox and Daisuke Matsuzaka have essentially broken down, a source familiar with the talks told the Boston Herald. The source also indicated that unless there is a major change of course, Matsuzaka will not sign with the Sox by Thursday's midnight deadline. If there is no deal in place by the deadline, the Red Sox will not have to pay any of the $51.11 million bid to the Seibu Lions that gained them exclusive negotiating rights. |
|
|
|
| There is no update on the ongoing talks between the Red Sox and Daisuke Matsuzaka, according to the Boston Herald. "We pledged to keep those negotiations confidential as much as possible," GM Theo Epstein said. The two parties have until midnight on Dec. 14 to strike a deal. |
|
|
|
| The Boston Herald reports that the Red Sox have made an offer to Daisuke Matsuzaka. "We have sent a formal offer to Matsuzaka and his agent Scott Boras," Red Sox President and CEO Larry Lucchino said after meeting with attorneys representing the Seibu Lions. "I believe it is fair and comprehensive, and offers a great deal of security and a substantial level of compensation." Prior to this announcement, it was believed that the two parties were far apart on negotiations, with the Sox talking about $7-$8 million per year, and Boras talking $15 million per year. The two sides have until December to strike a deal. |
|
|
|
| The Red Sox's winning bid for the rights to negotiate with Daisuke Matsuzaka came in at a whopping $51.1 million, according to the AP. The Mets came in second with a bid of around $39 million, and the Yankees came in third with a bid of about $33 million. The Sox now have until midnight on December 14 to strike a deal with Matsuzaka. |
|
|
|
| ESPN.com is reporting that the Red Sox bid $42 million for the rights to negotiate with Daisuke Matsuzaka, which far exceeded any other team's offer. No official announcement has been made, but the Seibu Lions have until Tuesday to accept the offer, something they will most certainly do. |
|
|
|
| ESPN's Buster Olney reported on Friday that the Red Sox may have posted the top bid for Daisuke Matsuzaka, possibly submitting a bid in the $38-45 million range. If this turns out to be true, the Red Sox will have 30 days to reach an agreement with Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras. |
|
|
|
| All bids for Daisuke Matsuzaka are now in, and the Seibu Lions could announce the winning offer anytime between today and next Tuesday, according to Newsday. At that point, the designated team can begin contract discussions with Matsuzaka's agent, Scott Boras. The Yankees, Mets, Rangers, Red Sox and Cubs are believed to have been the most serious bidders for the World Baseball Classic MVP. |
|
|
|
| The Seattle Times reports that sources have stated that the Mariners are unlikely to make a strong bid for Daisuke Matsuzaka. "I think the Mariners will go after him, but I don't think it will be the enthusiastic and aggressive approach they've employed in the past [for Japanese players]," said one source. Matsuzaka is expected to be one of the most coveted hurlers available on the free agent market. |
|
