Matsuzaka gets first Triple-A win

Kyodo Jun 24, 2013 Article history Online: Jun 24, 2013 Print: Jun 24, 2013 Last Modfied: Jun 24, 2013

NEW YORK – Cleveland Indians minor leaguer Daisuke Matsuzaka won his first decision of the season, pitching 5⅔ innings of one-run ball in the Columbus Clippers’ 6-2 win over Lehigh Valley on Saturday night.

The 32-year-old Matsuzaka, who is trying to revive his career with a promotion to the majors, scattered seven hits, walked two, struck out six and threw 89 pitches. He improved to 1-3 with a 3.86 ERA for the Indians’ Triple-A affiliate.

Matsuzaka signed a minor league deal with Cleveland in February with the hopes of making the major league roster for the start of the 2013 season, but things have not panned out, mainly because he has been plagued by injuries.

He went on the disabled list with a strain in his left rib cage on April 28. In his comeback on June 11, he lasted just 2⅔ innings due to a blister on his right hand. On June 16, Matsuzaka allowed four runs in 3⅔ innings.

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