New York Yankees outfielder Hideki Matsui said Tuesday he has decided not to join Japan's squad and play at the World Baseball Classic next March.
Matsui said he wants to sit out the inaugural 16-nation tournament to try and focus on helping his major league club become world champions.
"I have decided not to join up with the national squad. I know that it would be ideal to play for both club and country, and I understand that (Japan manager) Sadaharu Oh and the fans were hoping I would do that," said Matsui in a statement.