Ichiro Suzuki Returns to Seattle Mariners

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Jasmin C
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Ichiro Suzuki with the Miami Marlins. Photo by Albert Pena/CSM/REX/Shutterstock

One of the best hitters (if not the best) of the modern baseball era, Japanese outfielder Ichiro Suzuki returns to the place where his MLB career started. Seattle Mariners announced on Wednesday that they have signed the 44-year-old Ichiro to a one-year, $750,000 deal. According to the reports, he could earn close to $2 million more in performance-based bonuses.

“The addition of Ichiro gives our team another versatile and athletic outfielder,” – said Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto. “His incredible work ethic, preparation, and focus will enhance our environment in many ways. He’s truly one of the great players in the history of the game and his unquestionable presence is a valuable addition, both on the field and in the clubhouse. We’re very glad to bring him back home.“

Starting his baseball career in Japan in 1992, Ichiro Suzuki spent nine seasons with Orix BlueWave and managed 1,278 hits with a .353 career batting average, and won seven Golden Glove Awards during that time. In 2001 he came to MLB, signing with Seattle Mariners and immediately winning 2001 AL Rookie of the Year and MVP award. He spent 11 years with the Mariners, before playing being traded to the New York Yankees in 2012. He spent last three years with Miami Marlins, who recently declined his option for 2018.

During his time in MLB, Ichiro had 10 consecutive All-Star appearances (2001-2010) and won the Gold Glove Award in each year in that period. He currently holds MLB records for most hits in a single season with 262, most consecutive 200-hit seasons with 10 and most hits by a foreign-born player. His current MLB career stats include .312 batting average, 3,080 hits, and 117 home runs.

“I want to be able to help the Seattle Mariners,” – said Ichiro on Wednesday at a news conference. “I want to give it everything I’ve gained, everything I’ve done in my career, I want to give it all right here in Seattle.“

Jasmin C
Jasmin can write about almost everything expect about himself. All you need to know is that he likes music, Nutella stuffed pancakes and sleeping till noon on Sundays.