Article: Matsuzaka 'Surprised' at Red Sox Bid

NARITA, Japan - Japanese pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka was "surprised" to hear the Boston Red Sox bid $51.1 million for the rights to negotiate a contract with him.

"I was very surprised when I heard the figure," the 26-year-old said Wednesday before flying to the United States. "It shows that they really appreciate my ability. I know there will be a lot of pressure, but that's something I'm used to and something I enjoy."

The right-hander has a 108-60 career record with a 2.95 ERA and 1,355 strikeouts in 204 games.

Matsuzaka said he looked forward to seeing Boston, though he stressed that he hasn't signed a contract so "it's not as though I'm on the team yet. The Red Sox are a team that ...

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