Angels, Hideki Matsui in talks

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As reported earlier on this blog, the Angels are pursuing free-agent slugger Hideki Matsui, the World Series most valuable player for the New York Yankees, and according to one report, they were closing in on a one-year, $6.5-million deal for the designated hitter.

The Times’ Mike DiGiovanna says if Matsui, 35, signs with the Angels, it would mark the end of Vladimir Guerrero’s career in Anaheim.

In an e-mail to DiGiovanna, Matsui’s agent, Arn Tellem, said, ‘We are in serious discussions with the Angels.’ [update]

Matsui batted .274 with 28 homers and 90 RBIs for the New York Yankees last season, then was selected World Series MVP despite starting only three of the six games against Philadelphia. He went 8 for 13 (.615) with three homers and eight RBIs, tying a series record by driving in six runs in Game 6.

Matsui has surpassed 100 RBIs four times in seven seasons with the Yankees after coming over from Japan. He just completed a $52-million, four-year contract with New York.

-- Debbie Goffa