Fastball Fans

A Picture Perfect Moment: In a photo-op to celebrate Japanese superstars in baseball, as well as add another layer of interest into the Yankee and Red Sox rivalry, Red Sox pitchers Daisuke Matsuzaka, Hideki Okajima, along with Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui posed for a group picture before their spring training game. Treating each other with respect, they chatted amongst themselves and wish each other good luck.

Please Go Away, Barry: Well, the most hated man in sports may be coming back in 2008. According to ESPN, when asked by a reporter, he’d like to play next season if he’s still healthy, Bonds responded, “sure.” … “Let me get through ‘07 first,” he said. “If I’m healthy, I’d consider coming back.”

Oh joy.

Yang and Cano: Both players for raises from the Yankees, but not by much. In an era of fiscal restraint (somewhat), The Yankees renewed Wang’s contract at $489,000 and Robinson Cano agreed to a deal worth $490,800. General manager Brian Cashman said no discussions about long-term deals were held with either. At this stage, no,” Cashman said. “Right now we’re just comfortable with where we’re at.” (ESPN)

Gary Matthews, Jr.: After giving the guy who signs his massive paychecks, Arte Moreno, the media and the fans that help to pay his salary the cold shoulder, Gary Matthews, Jr. apologized to the Los Angeles Angels for causing a distraction to the team during spring training.

“Gary regrets the distraction this story has caused the Angels front office, the manager and his staff, teammates and fans,” Matthews’ agent, Scott Leventhal, said in a statement. “However, given the ongoing investigation, he simply cannot discuss the matter until appropriate to do so. Gary sincerely apologizes for this distraction and is determined to resolve this issue in a timely manner.”

Whatever you say, Gary.

I give Arte Moreno props for calling you out.

Other MLB Stuffage:

* Carl Pavano looked good against the Red Sox.

* Dodgers pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo tested positive for stimulants before joining Taiwan’s team at the Asian Games in Doha three months ago, but either cold or pain medications were to blame.

* Cliff Lee on the DL.

* Greg Maddux missed start due to ab strain.