Matsuzaka Meets The Press

From Daisuke Matsuzaka's first spring training press conference (which included more than 120 Japanese journalists):

Camp:

I'm not sure if my expression shows, but I am very proud of where I am right now. My training in Southern California was very fruitful. It worked out very well. That is a contributing factor. The atmosphere is making me feel like I can have fun.

Debut:

I would love to pitch a fastball, that will be my first ball. I would like my first batter, if he is listening, please try not to hit the ball.

Inspiration:

When Nomo started playing, I was in junior high. For me, who wanted to play in the big leagues some day, the first game was very shocking, very impressive. I remember it clearly. For that I will be playing my best so all young players in Japan who are dreaming of being professional can look up to me.

Expectations:

I have received a lot of expectations all my life, but I always remembered the most important thing is to play ball and have fun. ... The scale of the contract does not determine how I play baseball. I feel responsibility, but I am not pressured.

Gyroball:

I knew this question was coming today [barely suppressing a giggle]. And I was preparing some optional answers for this particular question. Should I say I can pitch that ball? Or I could say, which particular ball are you referring to? Or which ball are you calling a gyroball? Overall, if I have the chance, I will pitch that ball.