Hideki Matsui Released by Rays

The Rays had hoped Matsui could provide some stability and offense as they struggled through injuries early

on this year.  However, Matsui just didn’t hit.  Now, he has requested his release from the Rays after being designated for assignment, and that release was granted.

In 2012, Matsui has played 35 games and collected 95 at-bats.  He was hitting just .147/.214/.221.  He is a lifetime .282 hitter, but he just couldn’t get it done in his limited action with the Rays.

Tampa Bay has gotten most of their injured players back. Matt Joyce is back, Evan Longoria is back, B.J. Upton is still on the team.  All of this left little room for an almost nonexistent bat on the roster.

With the release, Matsui now becomes a free agent and can sign with any team willing to take him on.

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