| Matsuzaka feels better after leaving Friday's game |
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| Written by Admin |
| Saturday, 26 May 2007 13:45 |
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ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -Boston's Daisuke Matsuzaka said his health is improving after leaving Friday night's game against the Texas Rangers because of the stomach flu. ``I still haven't figured out exactly what happened (Friday night),'' Matsuzaka said in a statement read by an interpreter Saturday. ``But fortunately I feel better. I think above all else I need to focus on getting game ready for my next start. I also feel that I have to be ever cautious about maintaining my health.'' The Japanese pitcher allowed five runs and seven hits over five innings in Boston's 10-6 win over Texas. It equaled Matsuzaka's shortest outing of the season, but he stayed in long enough to earn the victory. Boston manager Terry Francona said he doesn't expect Matsuzaka (7-2) to miss his scheduled start Wednesday at home against the Cleveland Indians. ``He had no business being out there pitching that game,'' Francona said. ``We've all had the flu. You don't want to be pitching. You want to get under the covers and be miserable. That's just willing yourself to do something.'' Francona said Matsuzaka began having stomach cramps in the second inning. Matsuzaka was seen in the dugout holding his stomach during the game. The Red Sox led 6-5 when Matsuzaka left the game. He protected the lead by inducing Sammy Sosa's double play grounder and striking out Frank Catalanotto. Matsuzaka won his fourth straight start and earned his sixth win in seven starts. The 26-year-old rookie is tied for the most wins in the majors. Teammate Josh Beckett - who also has seven wins - said he will start Tuesday night against the Indians. Beckett (7-0) has been on the disabled list since May 19 with a right middle finger injury. He threw 70 pitches in a bullpen session Saturday. ``This was the last hurdle,'' Beckett said. ``I just wanted to be smart with this thing.'' |
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