Just like 2009: Hideki Matsui, 51, crushes homer at BlueClaws' clinic

"It was a coincidence today to have the Phillies (affiliate) playing the Yankees (affiliate) in today's game, which was nice," Matsui said. "Got to speak to the younger players today, and it's just (my) hope that they will improve and make it to the next level."

The events hosted by Matsui's foundation are more focused and deliberate than the typical camp of a pro athlete, as he prioritizes the ability to have a one-on-one time with attendees. Attendees are typically in the 10 to 13 age range with a solid background in softball or baseball, allowing for them to further refine their skillsets.

Former World Series MVP Hideki Matsui teaches young baseball and softball players at ShoreTown Ballpark on May 2.

The idea of a clinic hosted in Lakewood can be credited to Jane Rogers, who hosted similar camps with Matsui and the Staten Island Yankees when she was that team's general manager. Rogers now works with the BlueClaws as administrative coordinator.

Matsui is still an iconic figure in his native Japan, where he spent the first 10 years of his baseball career. There were multiple Japanese media outlets present to document his appearance in New Jersey. Even at the peak of his popularity in New York, Matsui noted that it was an easier transition coming to Major League Baseball in terms of the media frenzy.

"Played 10 years in Japan, (and I) was followed around a lot as an iconic player," Matsui said. "Coming to the U.S., it was a little bit less compared to Japan and much lesser now that (I have been) retired for several years now. Able to relax now."

Former World Series MVP Hideki Matsui teaches young baseball and softball players at ShoreTown Ballpark on May 2.

His significance in baseball history has only grown as the Yankees are in the midst of their longest stretch without a World Series title since 1923. Already a sporting icon in his home country, he holds a special place in the hearts and minds of New York fans as a two-time All-Star that hit his apex moment as a 35-year-old designated hitter. He was the first full-time designated hitter and the first Japanese-born player to win World Series MVP. His legacy in the sport can be traced to the most recent winner of that award, as Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto became the second Japanese player to win MVP after Los Angeles beat Toronto.

His approach to the game remains as enduring and unwavering as his place in the history of baseball's most iconic franchise. And could be words of wisdom as the Yankees try to end their title drought.

"One thing I tried to focus on was just to be consistent every game and not try to change much every game," Matsui said. "Whether it be regular season or World Series, I approached it the same way."

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Yankees' icon Hideki Matsui homers at Jersey Shore BlueClaws' clinic