Sox Open '08 Campaign in Japan

Daisuke Matsuzaka is expected to be a draw in Japan, where he pitched for the Seibu Lions from 1999-2006 before joining the Red Sox.

It's official: Red Sox to open title defense in Japan
But expectant Matsuzaka may have to miss trip

Associated Press / November 14, 2007
NEW YORK -- The Boston Red Sox will open their World Series title defense in Tokyo.

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Following months of negotiations, the Red Sox agreed to a two-game series against the Oakland Athletics in Japan on March 25-26, and the commissioner's office announced the trip early Wednesday.

With Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima, the Red Sox figure to be an attractive draw for the games at the Tokyo Dome. The Red Sox and A's also will play exhibition games on March 23-24 against Japanese teams.

However, Matsuzaka might miss the season opener at the Tokyo Dome. The Japanese pitcher's wife is expecting their second baby around the time of the March 25-opener against the Oakland Athletics, which was announced Wednesday morning. Red Sox president Larry Lucchino said the team and the commissioner's office were aware of the potential conflict.