Yuki Matsui, the San Diego Padres left-handed reliever, will not pitch for Japan in this year’s World Baseball Classic because of a left groin strain. The 30-year-old’s availability for the Padres’ season opener is also uncertain with the injury still affecting his throwing ability.
Though Matsui has been throwing off flat ground as of Thursday, he had to cut short a recent batting practice session due to the groin issue. His recovery is progressing, but the team remains cautious about rushing him back.
Current Status and Recovery Progress
Matsui spoke about his recovery plans through a translator, explaining his cautious approach.
“Right now, I’m just continuing the throwing progression, getting intensities and distances of (playing) catch back up,”
he said.
“Once it’s good enough, then I’ll start throwing off the mound. But as to when, we don’t know yet.”
He also expressed uncertainty about participating in San Diego’s home opener against the Detroit Tigers scheduled for March 26. Matsui’s health and readiness remain the deciding factors for his availability.
Japan’s World Baseball Classic Roster Changes
Japan, the defending WBC champion, is set to begin its campaign against Taiwan at the Tokyo Dome on March 6. Following Matsui’s withdrawal, left-hander Yumeto Kanemaru from the Chunichi Dragons was named as his replacement on the Japanese roster.
Matsui shared his feelings about missing the tournament, saying,
“I was looking forward to playing with them. I think the Tokyo games, because of the time differences, I don’t think I can watch in real time. But I believe they’re going to make it to the round in Miami. And I think that’s when I’ll be able to watch live, and cheer for them.”
Career Highlights and Performance Background
Before joining the Padres, Matsui had a notable career in Nippon Professional Baseball. Standing 5-foot-8, he recorded a 2.40 ERA, 236 saves, and a 1.11 WHIP over 10 seasons. Matsui became the youngest pitcher in the Japanese major leagues to reach 200 saves, making his debut at age 18 in 2014 with the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles. He was a five-time All-Star and led the Pacific League in saves in 2019, 2022, and 2023.
Impact on Padres and Next Steps
The Padres face uncertainty heading into the new season without clarity on Matsui’s status, who signed a $28 million, five-year contract with the team two seasons ago. His groin strain has limited his availability, and the team continues to monitor his progress closely. Matsui’s absence from the WBC and potential delayed return impact San Diego’s bullpen depth as the season opener approaches.
