Paul Skenes Pays Homage to Daisuke Matsuzaka in Spring Training
American pitcher Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates starred in a moving encounter during spring training. Skenes gifted an autographed cap from the United States team to the legendary Japanese player Daisuke Matsuzaka.
This symbolic gesture took place at the Pirates’ camp in Bradenton, where Skenes is preparing for his debut in the international tournament.
In a video shared by the organization, the moment is captured when Skenes gives the signed cap to Matsuzaka, highlighting that it was the first time he autographed one with the colors of the American selection.
Matsuzaka is an emblematic figure in the contest.
Matsuzaka is an iconic figure in the history of the World Baseball Classic. His performance in the 2006 and 2009 editions catapulted him to fame. In 2006, he led Japan to the title and was named Most Valuable Player, a feat he repeated in 2009 when his team defended the crown.
Matsuzaka’s legacy in the tournament includes historical records, such as the most wins (6) and strikeouts (23), in addition to ranking second in innings pitched (27.2), with an impressive ERA of 1.95.
Skenes, who was recently awarded the National League Cy Young Award, will lead the rotation of the American team. The team’s debut will be on March 6 against Brazil in Group B, with the hope of starting a distinguished career in the international tournament.
