Dice-K struggles in Japan's WBC tuneup against Australia

OSAKA, Japan (AP) -- Daisuke Matsuzaka struggled through 1 2/3 innings Wednesday but Japan recovered to defeat Australia 11-2 in a tuneup game for the World Baseball Classic.

Matsuzaka got the start against Australia but couldn't find his rhythm and left the game after giving up two runs on five hits while striking out three.

"There were good points and bad points," the Boston Red Sox right-hander said. "I'll work hard to get ready for the actual games."

Japan had little trouble with Australia after Matsuzaka left but it was the second consecutive game in which a starter struggled for the defending champions. Yu Darvish had similar problems in Japan's 8-2 win over Australia on Tuesday.

Japan is having no problems on offense. Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners was 2-for-5 with two runs scored and an RBI to lead a 16-hit attack.

Led by Yomiuri Giants manager Tatsunori Hara, Japan will begin the defense of its title when the tournament begins on March 5 at the Tokyo Dome.

Japan is in Group A with South Korea, Taiwan and China. The top two teams advance to the second round of the 16-nation tournament. The final is scheduled for March 23 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

Australia is in Group B with Cuba, Mexico and South Africa and will play its preliminary round games in Mexico City.