Major League Baseball (MLB) Teams

"Getting adjusted to the pitching over here was the hardest part as far as baseball was concerned."

"I'm a baseball player. Not being able to play baseball certainly was a lonely thing."

"I'm aware the fans in the U.S. can be less forgiving...I'll just have to do my best to please them."

"I think homers are my best trait-I look forward to hitting them over there."

"It's important to find a team where you can be comfortable. I know there are a lot of high expectations."

"It's not like you can aim for a home run and hit a home run."

"I've been watching American baseball on television for a long time, but it was only in recent years that, realistically, I've been thinking about playing here."

"It wasn't especially difficult to adjust here. But I think the biggest challenge has been the language: In terms of eating, or just living, in general, that's been fine."

"Since the first day I came to the team, all of the team members have been very accommodating. So basically, I don't feel isolated. It's been really great."

"The changeup is something I'm not used to. They don't throw those in Japan."

"The power of home run hitters in the majors is different from those here. It's probably difficult for me to match that power now."

"What I try to do is don't have any ups and downs. I emphasize taking the same approach."

"After some time for cultural adjustments, he'll play like an All-Star." - Bobby Valentine

"He's a good player and he'll put on a good show. He'll be fine." - Barry Bonds

"He's a phenomenal player who's accomplished some incredible feats in Japan." - Jason Giambi

"He uses the whole field and has a good idea of the plate." - Art Howe

"I think Matsui is one of a kind." - Ray Poitevint

"Jeter, Williams, Giambi, Alfonso-they'll help him become a better player. He will rise to a new level." - Masanori Murakami

"Matsui will be expected to hit balls out of the park." - Sadahuru Oh

"There is no need to chase the level of success people expect him to achieve." - Ichiro Suzuki

"To me the best part of his performance is his RBI totals. He hits the ball from the left side of the field to the right side, so that makes him tough to pitch to." - Joe Torre