FUKUOKA (Kyodo) Fukuoka Softbank Hawks designated hitter Nobuhiko Matsunaka said Saturday he will miss the upcoming Climax Series in order to undergo surgery on his right knee and left elbow.
The 35-year-old Matsunaka said the most important thing is returning to form for next season.
"I wanted to play (in the Climax Series) but I couldn't be at my full strength. I will undergo a solid rehab program so I can be ready for the season opener," said Matsunaka, who will also skip the last game of the season against the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles on Sunday.
Matsunaka has mainly appeared this year as the team's designated hitter and has spent limited time playing defense since June after injuring his left elbow.