Kaz Matsui has returned to Japan to join the Rakuten Eagles, according to the Associated Press (via the Denver Post). The Eagles were one of four teams that expressed interest in the switch-hitting infielder, according to reports passed along by Jason Coskrey of the Japan Times (on Twitter).
The 35-year-old finished the season in the Rockies' minor league system after the Astros released him. In seven major league seasons, Matsui posted a .267/.321/.380 line and stole 102 bases (120 attempts). His finest seasons came in 2007-08 when he batted .290/.348/.415. While with the Mets, the light-hitting Matsui homered in his first plate appearance of the 2004, 2005 and 2006 seasons.
It would be cool if Kaz had affiliations with the A’s, that way he could talk to Iwakuma but he’d probably want Iwakuma to stay with him now that he signed there. Sad to see the way it ended in Houston for Kaz…He was a good player and had some good seasons and I wish him the best back home.
Happy Thanksgiving by the way everyone!
Kaz had 1 good year and Ed Wade gave him 16 mil
Kaz had 1 good year and Ed Wade gave him 16 mil