Matsui Drawing Interesting From The Tigers?

No, not the Detroit Tigers, but the Hanshin Tigers of the Japanese Central League. According to NPB Tracker, members of the Tigers front office have made statements lately that indicate they would like to bring the Yankees DH back to Japan after his current contract runs out after this season. Here's some more from NPB Tracker (Hat-tip to River Ave. Blues):

Here’s what was said in Sponichi:

“There’s a feeling that if he comes back to Japan, it will be with Hanshin. He’s had knee issues, and if he’s going to play in Japan the natural grass at Koshien would be good.”

And Nikkan Sports:

“Certainly with that type of hitter, it wouldn’t be that we don’t have interest. Are the Yankees really not going to resign him, and if so, how much would we need? We want to do our homework so that if it comes to that, we’ll be able to move quickly.”

“Realistically money would be a problem.”

Comments attributed to Matsui appear in Sponichi:

“Of course, the best thing would be to continue to be a player who is needed by the Yankees. Of course I can’t even imagine playing for another team.”

“I might have to return to Japan.”

Obviously he's been hurt by injuries over the past three years, but I think Matsui has had a very solid career in pinstripes, and when you look at the numbers they back that up. In seven seasons in the Bronx he's hitting .292/.369/.484 with 122 homers and 535 RBI. Not too shabby. When healthy the guy was good for 290+, 20+, 100+ every year.

That said it looks like the end of the road for Matsui's Yankee career, so I think a move back to Japan would be the best move for him. He'll be back home, and you know the Japanese people will welcome him back with open arms and treat him like a returning hero. Hopefully he can head back to Japan with a brand new World Series ring.

... Here's a little more news on Matsui. Peter Abraham reported today that Matsui will most likely be limited to pinch-hitting while the Yankees play in National League ballparks next week. Joe Girardi feels that using him in the field could end up aggravating his sore knees.