Matsui and Athletics help support Japan relief efforts

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Matsui and Athletics help support Japan relief efforts

Published: 30 Mar. 2011, 19:32

OAKLAND, Calif. - Hideki Matsui feels if he has a good season in his first year with the Oakland Athletics it could provide some strength for his struggling countrymen back home in Japan. His new club wants to do its part, too.

Matsui and the A’s announced Tuesday they have already raised more than $50,000 to help with relief efforts in Japan after the 9.0 earthquake and ensuing tsunami devastated his homeland on March 11 and killed thousands. Matsui separately donated $620,000 himself.

“It’s been a sad story,’’ Matsui said before Oakland hosted the San Francisco Giants in an exhibition game. “Hopefully I can play well and this could provide some good news for the people in Japan. I have nothing but appreciation for the efforts the A’s have gone through for this. It happened in such a faraway place.’’

AP