Empty the Bench

There’s been a ton of hype surrounding Japanese import and Boston Red Sox new pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, and he did not disappoint. Dice-K debuted against the Kansas City Royals this afternoon in impressive fashion. He allowed one earned run (a solo shot by David of the Jesus), struck out 10, surrendered six hits and walked one batter en route to a 4-1 victory.

It was a strong start from beginning to end as Matsuzaka threw 74 of his 108 pitches for strikes, struck out the side in the fourth inning and finished by striking out three of the last four batters he faced. Too bad it wasn’t a bowling match. His breaking balls and change-ups were well complimented with a mid-90s fastball that kept the Royals lineup off balance all game. The pitch count seems a little high for a first start of the season, but this guy was throwing 150-pitch games in Japan, so it’s nothing new to him. It’s also worth noting that the 26-year-old righty also made some nifty plays in the field, assisting on three outs. Those of you who drafted him for your fantasy squads have to be feeling pretty good right about now, but keep in mind: it was the Kansas City Royals.

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