Hideki Matsui
As the most celebrated slugger in Japan, when Hideki Matsui signed with the New York Yankees prior to the 2003 season, it was an international sensation. Matsui, a solid left-handed hitter with a stroke made for Yankee Stadium, drove in 100 runs in each of his first three seasons in the major leagues, slugging 31 homers in his second year. A durable team player, Matsui frequently contributed clutch hits while playing nearly every inning during his first three seasons in America.
Played For
New York Yankees (2003-2005)
Best Season: 2004
Born
Hideki Matsui was born on June 12, 1974, in Kanazawa
Batted: Left
Threw: Right
Primary Position: CF
Primary Team: NYA
College: None
Major League Debut
March 31, 2003
Nine Other Players Who Debuted in 2003
Jeremy Bonderman
Hideki Matsui
Mark Teixera
Miguel Cabrera
Jason Bay
Rocco Baldelli
Jose Contrares
Dontrelle Willis
Justin Morneau
Nicknames
Godzilla
Post-Season Appearances
2003 American League Championship Series
2003 American League Divisional Series
2003 World Series
2004 American League Championship Series
2004 American League Divisional Series
2005 American League Divisional Series
Notes
Matsui went 4-for-4 in his return from a four-month stay on the disabled list, on September 12, 2006.
Injuries and Explanation for Missed Playing Time
Matsui played in every game for the Yankees in his first three seasons in pinstripes, before breaking his left wrist in May of 2006. He returned to the lineup on September 11, after missing four months... On April 7, 2007, Matsui strained his left hamstring running out a grounder and was out of the lineup for 2 1/2 weeks.
All-Star Selections
2003 AL
2004 AL
Learn More about Hideki Matsui
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