20 Things I Know about Daisuke Matsuzaka

by Bill Belew on October 11th, 2008

Dice-K, Daisuke Matsuzaka is a Japanese import to the Boston Red Sox. Thanks Hideo Nomo for opening the door to pitchers too.

There’s a lot to know about Matsuzka…here are a few more.

1. Daisuke Matsuzaka can go 3-0 on every batter and not allow a hit.

2. He can walk the bases loaded and not allow a run.

3. He can test the patience of teammates as well as opponents.

4. When Matsuzaka pitches, the Red Sox expect a three-and-a-half hour game.

5. When Matsuzaka ptiches they also expect a win.

6. Matsuzaka went 18-3 this season

7. Matsuzaka was never efficient, but almost always effective.

8. Matsuzaka led the American League in walks.

9. Matsuzaka lasted eight innings only two times

10. Matsuzaka loses control and runs up his pitch counts but still wins almost 90% of the time.

11. David Ortiz doesn’t know how he does it. But the designated hitter David Ortiz said. “But he does it.”

12. Matsuzaka seems to think he can issue as many walks as he wants, just don’t give up and runs

13. Matsuzaka seems most comfortable with his “head in a noose.”

14. Sean Casey gives him credit, “He’s done it all year.”

15. Matsuzaka loaded the bases 15 times this year and hitters are 0-for-15 against him with the bases loaded.

16. Matsuzaka has a boat load of different pitches at his disposal.

17. Matsuzaka has three fastballs — a cutter, a two-seamer and a straight fastball .

18. Matsuzaka also throws a slider and a change-up.

19. Matsuzaka doesn’t know how he leaves stranded runners either. When asked, “I’m not really sure,” he said.

20. The Japanese love Matsuzaka. Why shouldn’t they? He works hard and he wins. That’s the Japanese way.

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