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Okajma translated

The following is a transcript of Hideki Okajima’s postgame interview session with the Japanese media. Translated by the Globe’s Daigo Fujiwara.

Q. How did you feel coming into the game after Daisuke Matsuzaka?

A. I wanted very badly to help Daisuke win. I got the first batter [Jason Giambi] out, but then I allowed a hit [to Robinson Cano] and gave four-balls [to Posada]. I tried my best, maybe I was trying too hard. I was behind in the count a lot, and I especially regret the four balls that I issued. I was not happy about that. Perhaps I let my emotion show too much.

Q. You pitched in each of the last three games. How did you feel? Were you prepared and did you know you may go three games in a row?

A. Sure, I was a little bit tired, but if the team wants me out there, I can go. I was hoping I would get to pitch in a winning situation if I was to pitch today and I did. I didn't know I was pitching three games in row and I wasn't told that I was going to pitch again today. I was told to warm up after we got on top, I couldn't deliver, but Donnelly-san was able to bail Daisuke and I out.

Q. It looked like you were throwing more curveballs than your previous relief appearances.

A. Yes, I was throwing more curves, and I threw only one changeup. I was just following [catcher Jason Varitek's] lead. The ball was slipping a little bit and I couldn't get a good command of the ball,

Q. What did you think about the four home runs in a row [that the Red Sox hit in the third inning]?

A. It was exciting, wasn't it? I have never experienced anything like it in Japan. I've seen three in a row but never a four in the row. That was amazing.