Sports Redux: Domo Arigato, Mr. Matsuzaka

Have we pretty much run out of Japan-themed headlines? Almost? OK.

After all the hype and promise, Daisuke turned out to be everything Red Sox Nation could have hoped for. Of course, he gave up six hits and a run, so there's room for improvement, but Dice was firmly in control of the hapless Royals in the 4-1 victory. Which puts the Red Sox alone in first place, and makes us feel a little silly for panicking a couple of days ago. Bill Simmons did a running diary.

The Sox and Tim Wakefield now head down to Texas, where they'll try to spoil the Rangers' Opening Day, the Rangers having already ruined their first week by getting swept in Anaheim. Some guy named Robinson Tejeda pitches for Texas.

Sad news for local sports yesterday, as former Patriot Darryl Stingley died at the tragically young age of 55. Stingley, of course, was the player paralyzed for life when Oakland thug Jack Tatum crashed into him in a 1978 exhibition game. He spent his life since then consulting for the Pats, running a foundation for kids, and being a visible symbol of life going on after a terrible event. He will be missed.

The Celtics are determined to show up at every game on their schedule. Tonight, they host Shaq, Antoine, and the Heat. The Bruins lost to Buffalo last night, and will help Ottawa practice for the playoffs (playoffs (n): a 16-team tournament held at the conclusion of the NHL or NBA regular season to crown a champion, in case that term is unfamiliar) in their finale tomorrow.

But before you weep over our pitiful winter teams, consider the plight of North Dakota. Their University was knocked out of the Frozen Four by Boston College. So the hockey season is over in North Dakota, and they don't have Daisuke, Papelbon, the Patriots, or much else to keep them focused until next season begins.

Dice-K fever photo from RedSox.com.