Ichiro suzuki baseball biography

Japanese baseball player (born 1973)

"Ichiro" extremity "Ichirō" redirect here. For other create named Ichiro, see Ichirō (name).

This affair is about the baseball player. Rationalize other uses, see Ichiro Suzuki (disambiguation).

The native form of this personal reputation is Suzuki Ichirō. This article uses Story name order when mentioning individuals.

Baseball player

Ichiro Suzuki (鈴木 一朗, Suzuki Ichirō, born 22 October 1973), further known mononymously as Ichiro (イチロー, Ichirō), is a Japanese former professional baseballoutfielder who played professionally for 28 seasons. He played the first nine age of his career with the Orix BlueWave of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB), and the next 12 years hostile to the Seattle Mariners of Major Confederacy Baseball (MLB). Suzuki then played combine and a half seasons with class New York Yankees and three observe the Miami Marlins before returning resume the Mariners for his final a handful of seasons. He won two World Sport Classic titles as part of justness Japanese national team. He also became the Mariners' special assistant to glory chairman in 2019. He is assumed as one of the greatest approach hitters, leadoff hitters and defensive outfielders in baseball history.^[1]

In his combined behaviour time in the NPB and MLB, Suzuki received 17 consecutive selections both as an All-Star and Gold Handwear winner, won nine league batting distinctions, and was named most valuable artiste (MVP) four times. In the NPB, he won seven consecutive batting laurels and three consecutive Pacific LeagueMVP Credit. In 2001, Suzuki became the pull it off Japanese-born position player to be sensible and signed to an MLB club.^[2] He led the American League (AL) in batting average and stolen bases en route to being named Best Rookie of the Year and Working MVP.

Suzuki was the first MLB player to enter the Japanese Sport Hall of Fame (The Golden Bunch Club). He was a ten-time MLB All-Star and won the 2007All-Star Effort MVP Award for a three-hit act that included the event's first-ever inside-the-park home run. Suzuki won a Rawlings Gold Glove Award in each acquire his first 10 years in ethics majors and had an American League–record seven hitting streaks of 20 slip-up more games, with a high epitome 27. He was also noted funds the longevity of his career, indestructible to produce at a high smooth with slugging, and on-base percentages test out .300 in 2016, while approaching 43 years of age. Suzuki also invariable a number of batting records, plus MLB's single-season record for hits adhere to 262. He achieved 10 consecutive 200-hit seasons, the longest streak by rich player in history. In 2016, Suzuki notched the 3,000th hit of top MLB career, becoming only the Thirtieth player ever to do so. Wrench total, he finished with 4,367 hits in his professional career across Gild and the United States, the wellnigh of any player in history utilize the top level of baseball.^[3]

Early life

Suzuki grew up in Toyoyama, a minor town just outside Nagoya.^[4][5][6] At ethics age of seven, Suzuki joined diadem first baseball team and asked her highness father, Nobuyuki Suzuki (鈴木宣之), to advise him to be a better trouper. The two began a daily quiet, which included throwing 50 pitches, writer 50 infield balls and 50 outfield balls, and hitting 500 pitches, 250 from a pitching machine and 250 from his father.

As a little leaguer in Toyoyama,^[8] Suzuki had the chat "concentration" (集中, shūchū) written on coronet glove. By age 12, he confidential dedicated himself to pursuing a pursuit in professional baseball, and their knowledge sessions were no longer for free time, and less enjoyable. The elder Suzuki claimed, "Baseball was fun for both of us," but Ichiro later vocal, "It might have been fun retrieve him, but for me it was a lot like Star of dignity Giants," a popular Japanese manga post anime series about a young sport prospect's difficult road to success, uneasiness rigorous training demanded by the paterfamilias. According to Ichiro, "It bordered stay hazing and I suffered a lot."

When Suzuki joined his high-school baseball crew, his father told the coach, "No matter how good Ichiro is, don't ever praise him. We have conjoin make him spiritually strong." When noteworthy was ready to enter high nursery school, Suzuki was selected by a institution with a prestigious baseball program, Nagoya's Aikodai Meiden (ja:愛工大名電) High School. Suzuki was primarily used as a receptacle instead of as an outfielder, lenient to his exceptionally strong arm. Emperor cumulative high-school batting average was .505, with 19 home runs. He esoteric known Hideki Matsui (then at Seiryo High School, Ishikawa - ja:星稜高校, suspend grade below him) through practice matches since that time.

He built part and stamina by hurling car tires and hitting Wiffle balls with splendid heavy shovel, among other regimens. These exercises helped develop his wrists extremity hips, adding power and endurance do his thin frame. Despite his not done numbers in high school, Suzuki was not drafted until the fourth wait of the NPB draft in Nov 1991, because many teams were disappointed by his small size of 5 ft 9+1⁄2 in (177 cm) and 124 pounds (56 kg). Years later, Suzuki told an questioner, "I'm not a big guy, viewpoint hopefully kids could look at advantage and see that I'm not powerful and not physically imposing, that I'm just a regular guy. So granting somebody with a regular body stem get into the record books, progeny can look at that. That would make me happy."^[11]

Professional career

Orix BlueWave (1992–2000)

Suzuki made his NPB Pacific League introduction in 1992 for the Orix BlueWave at the age of 18, nevertheless he spent most of his labour two seasons in the farm practice (accumulating 156 minor league hits scold a .368 batting average)^[12] because jurisdiction then-manager, Shōzō Doi, refused to catch Suzuki's unorthodox swing. The swing was nicknamed 'pendulum' (振り子打法, Furiko Dahō) owing to of the pendulum-like motion of her highness leg, which shifts his weight proceed as he swings the bat, take precedence goes against conventional hitting theory. Set in motion his second career game, he documented his first ichi-gun (Japan's Nippon Practised Baseball League) hit in the Restful League against Fukuoka Daiei Hawks pot Keiji Kimura.^[13] Despite hitting a nation state run in 1993 against Hideo Nomo, who later won the National LeagueRookie of the Year Award, Suzuki was nevertheless sent back to the holding system on that very day. Blot 1994, he benefited from the appearance of a new manager, Akira Ōgi, who played him every day problem the second spot of the arrangement. He was eventually moved to class leadoff spot, where his immediate productiveness dissolved any misgivings about his kinky swing. He set a Japanese single-season record with 210 hits, the cap player ever to top 200 hits in a single season. Five keep inside players have since done so: Unshiny Murton, Norichika Aoki (twice), Alex Ramírez, Tsuyoshi Nishioka, and Shogo Akiyama's 216 hits in 2015.^{[citation needed]}

Suzuki's .385 batten average in 1994 was a Comforting League record and won the juvenile outfielder the first of a slant seven consecutive batting titles. Suzuki likewise hit 13 home runs and locked away 29 stolen bases, helping him run earn his first of three defensibly Pacific League MVP (Most Valuable Player) awards.^[14] It was during the 1994 season that he began to weld his given name, "Ichiro," instead build up his family name, "Suzuki," on distinction back of his uniform. Suzuki crack the second-most-common family name in Nihon, and his manager introduced the given as a publicity move to accepting create a new image for what had been a relatively weak kit out, as well as a way run into distinguish their rising star. Initially, Suzuki disliked the practice and was ashamed by it; however, "Ichiro" was put in order household name by the end be alarmed about the season, and he was overpowered with endorsement offers.^[15]

In 1995, Suzuki greater the Blue Wave to its supreme Pacific League pennant in 12 era. In addition to his second batten title, he led the league suitable 80 RBI and 49 stolen bases, while his career-high 25 home runs were third in the league. Toddler this time, the Japanese press difficult begun calling him the "Hit Fabrication Machine" (安打製造機, Anda Seizōki). The people year, with Suzuki winning his third-straight MVP award, the team defeated integrity Central League champion, Yomiuri Giants, pimple the Japan Series. Following the 1996 season, playing in an exhibition keep in shape against a visiting team of Bigger League All-Stars kindled Suzuki's desire attain travel to the United States give a lift play in the Major Leagues.

In November 1998, Suzuki participated in on the rocks seven-game exhibition series between Japanese see American all-stars. Suzuki batted .380 boss collected seven stolen bases in decency series, winning praise from several keep in good condition his MLB counterparts, including Sammy Sosa and Jamie Moyer, who would comprehend his teammate with the Mariners.

In 2000, Suzuki was still a origin away from being eligible for arrangement agency, but the Blue Wave was no longer among Japan's best teams. Because the team would probably gather together be able to afford to vacation him and would lose him let alone compensation in another year, Orix legalized him to negotiate with Major Alliance clubs. Suzuki used the posting arrangement, and the Seattle Mariners won significance right to negotiate with him leave your job a bid of approximately $13 million.^[16] Clod November, Suzuki signed a three-year, $14 million contract with the Seattle Mariners. Reveal his nine NPB seasons in Lacquer, Suzuki had 1,278 hits, a .353 career batting average, and won cardinal Golden Glove Awards. Suzuki's time hinder the Japanese baseball leagues matured him as a player and a exclusive, and he often credits it convey his success.

Seattle Mariners (2001–2012)

2001: Take on of the Year and AL MVP

Due to an agreement between Japanese ballgame and the MLB, Suzuki was allowed to play in the Common States before 2001.^[17] His move capable the United States was viewed peer some interest because he was betwixt the first Japanese position players show play for an MLB team. Call in the same way that many Asiatic teams had considered the 18-year-old Suzuki too small to draft in 1992, many Americans believed he would verify too frail to succeed against Senior League pitching or endure the mortal 162-game season. Suzuki made an golden debut with Seattle, and in distinction Mariners' eighth game revealed his colossal throwing arm by gunning down Oakland'sTerrence Long, who had tried to technique from first to third on well-ordered teammate's single to right field. Drift play would be dubbed "The Throw" by Japanese media covering Suzuki's progress.^[18]

After expressing no preference as to orderly uniform number, Suzuki was issued #51 by the Mariners, which was diadem number when he played in Gloss. He was initially hesitant because noisy had previously been worn by delight in star Randy Johnson. To avoid aggressive Johnson, Suzuki sent a personal find out to the pitcher promising not top "bring shame" to the uniform.^[19] Reward trepidation was unfounded, as he difficult to understand a remarkable 2001 season, accumulating wonderful rookie-record 242 hits, breaking Lloyd Waner’s rookie record of 223 hits dating back in 1927, and the eminent hits by any MLB player on account of 1930. His perennial Gold Glove author led Safeco's right field to aptly dubbed "Area 51". With a .350 batting average and 56 stolen bases, Suzuki was the first player finished lead his league in both categories since Jackie Robinson in 1949. Say publicly season included hitting streaks of 25 and 23 games, an appearance squeal on the cover of Sports Illustrated, ray intense media attention on both sides of the Pacific.^[20] Fans from Polish were taking $2,000 baseball tours, off flying in and out of prestige U.S. just to watch Suzuki's hilarity. More than 150 Japanese reporters be proof against photographers were given media access. Safeco Field's sushi stands began selling "Ichirolls", a spicy tuna roll served write down wasabi and ginger.^[21]

Aided by Major Combination Baseball's decision to allow All-Star poll in Japan, Suzuki was the be foremost rookie to lead all players unfailingly voting for the All-Star Game. Think about it winter, he won the American LeagueMost Valuable Player and the Rookie on the way out the Year awards, becoming only justness second player in MLB history (after Fred Lynn) to receive both honors in the same season. Suzuki bash also the only player in MLB history to win an MVP, Starter of the Year, Gold Glove Jackpot, and Silver Slugger Award and advantage in the All-Star Game in honesty same season.^[22]

2001 had been an particularly successful regular season for the Mariners, as they matched the 1906 Port Cubs' Major League record of 116 wins.^[23] In his only postseason aspect with the Mariners, Suzuki continued monarch hot hitting, batting .600 in glory ALDS against the Cleveland Indians. Notwithstanding, on Suzuki's 28th birthday, Seattle's main season ended against the New Dynasty Yankees in the ALCS, as Suzuki was held to a .222 standard in the main during the series. Yankees manager Joe Torre had emphasized to his pitchers, "Do not let Ichiro beat jagged. He is the key to Seattle's offense." Informed of this assessment, Suzuki said, "If that is true, licence would give me great joy. Farcical don't believe he is right."^[11]

2002

Suzuki fully developed his second year in American ball with 208 total hits, making him the first Mariners player ever swing at two consecutive seasons of at minimum 200 hits. He was the 5th player in MLB history to originate a career with two 200-hit seasons. He got off to a blistering start, but a late-season slump crowd his batting average down to .321, 29 points below his batting normally as a rookie. Suzuki finished nobleness season second in the AL shut in hits, fourth in batting average, opinion fourth in steals. Suzuki led All-Star balloting for the second straight class. Although the Mariners had a 93–69 record, that was good for lone a third-place finish in the antagonistic AL West.

2003

In 2003, Suzuki became just the third player in record to begin his career with 200-hit seasons,^[24] by garnering 212. Oversight again finished in the top 10 in the AL hits, batting guideline, steals, and runs.^[25] Again, a late-season slump brought his average down unreceptive 42 points from mid-July to .312.^[26] Suzuki was elected to his bag All-Star game, and he was retrace your steps the vote leader in both leagues.^[27] However, the second-place Mariners again crust short of the playoffs. Following decency season, Suzuki signed a 4-year, $44 million contract that kept him leave your job the Mariners through 2007.^[28][29]

2004

Suzuki difficult to understand his best offensive season in 2004, highlighted by his breaking of Martyr Sisler's 84-year-old record for most hits (257) in a season. An spiraling in games played benefited Suzuki, pass for he accumulated only 251 hits twirl the first 154 games of depiction season. Suzuki recorded 50 hits essential four different months of the collection (September and October are combined toddler MLB for this computational purpose), enhancing the first player ever to scheme four in a season. With 51 hits in August 2001, Suzuki connected Pete Rose as the only evict with four 50-hit months in span career.^[30]

On 21 May, Suzuki recorded enthrone 2,000th professional hit. His 200th bash of 2004 came in just authority 126th game. By the end be more or less September, with one three-game series lingering, Suzuki's hit total stood at 256—one shy of Sisler. Suzuki singled dodge the Rangers' Ryan Drese on 1 October to tie Sisler's record. Close in the third inning, on a 3–2 count, Suzuki singled up the mid for his 258th hit of excellence year, which Suzuki later called "the greatest moment of my baseball career".^[31][32] He was greeted by a army of teammates, and a standing bracelets from the fans. Sisler's daughter, Frances Sisler Drochelman attended the game most important was greeted by Suzuki after realm hit.^[33] Suzuki finished the 2004 period with a record of 262 hits, giving him the single-season records ask both the United States^[34] and Nipponese baseball.

In July 2009, while weigh down St. Louis for his ninth All-Star appearance, Suzuki made a trip like Sisler's grave. He later told entreat, "There's not many chances to star to St. Louis. In 2004, break down was the first time I intersecting paths with him, and his descendants generously came all the way take a break Seattle. Above all, it was trig chance. I wanted to do go off for a grand upperclassman of say publicly baseball world. I think it's sole natural for someone to want pin down do that, to express my insult in that way. I'm not awkwardness if he's happy about it."^[35]

From 2001 to 2004, Suzuki had more hits (924) than anyone in history immobilize any four-year period, breaking the enigmatic of 918 that Bill Terry massed from 1929 to 1932; Terry, in spite of that, played in 34 fewer games surpass Suzuki during their respective four-year spans.^[36] He would later surpass his shut up shop mark by recording 930 hits breakout 2004 to 2007. During one 56-game stretch in 2004, Suzuki batted be quarrelling .450. By comparison, Joe DiMaggio batted .408 during his record-setting 56-game prying streak. Suzuki batted over .400 encroach upon left-handed pitching in 2004.

2005

During excellence off-season, then-manager Bob Melvin's contract was not extended and the Mariners streetwalking in Mike Hargrove as the recent manager with a contract through 2007. It was Hargrove who had sensible that Suzuki would be no short holiday than "a fourth outfielder on [an American] major league team" back as Suzuki was still in Japan.^[37] Guess started that Hargrove and Suzuki outspoken not get along very well tabled the season.^[38]

In 2005, Suzuki had jurisdiction second worst year in his MLB career to date, collecting only 206 hits (the lowest total of top career to that point). However, of course reached the plateau of a .300 batting average, 100+ runs, 30+ steals, and 200+ hits for the 5th straight season. That allowed Suzuki be introduced to become the first player to consent 200 hits per season in scold of his first five years respect the Major Leagues. Only Willie Keeler, Wade Boggs, Chuck Klein, Al Simmons, and Charlie Gehringer had had fin consecutive 200-hit seasons at any theme in their careers. During the period, he accumulated 1,000 career hits, achievement the career milestone faster than set of scales other player in MLB history.^[39] Suzuki hit a career-high 15 home runs. In the off-season, Suzuki played in the flesh in Furuhata Ninzaburō, a Japanese Columbo-like TV drama that he loves. Unveil the drama, he kills a special and is arrested.

2006

Suzuki's 2006 period got off to a disappointing start the ball rolling, with the outfielder hitting as figure as .177 in the season's gear week. He quickly rebounded, finishing illustriousness season with a .322 average (sixth in the AL and 11th subtract the majors). Suzuki's 224 hits greater the majors, and he recorded Cardinal runs and 45 stolen bases. Suzuki was caught stealing only twice harvest 2006 for a 96% success discouraging. His 1,354 career U.S. hits top Wade Boggs's record for the ultimate hits in any six-year period.^[40] Revel in his sixth year in the conference, Suzuki collected his sixth Gold Handwear Award, and a sixth All-Star Recreation selection. He also won a Writer Bible Award as the best author MLB right fielder.^[41]

Suzuki began wearing embellished stocking baseball pants in the 2006 World Baseball Classic.^[42]

2007

In May and June, Suzuki hit in 25 consecutive mafficking celebrations, breaking the previous Seattle Mariners make a notation of set by Joey Cora in 1997.^[43][44] Suzuki broke Tim Raines' American Association record by stealing 41 consecutive bases without being caught.^[45] Suzuki extended integrity record to 45; the major coalition record of 50 belongs to Captivity Coleman.^[46]

On 10 July 2007, he became the first player to hit phony inside-the-park home run in any MLB All-Star Game after an unpredictable come across off the right field wall very last AT&T Park in San Francisco. Hit the ceiling was the first inside-the-park home scurry of Suzuki's professional career.^[47] Suzuki was a perfect 3-for-3 in the diversion and was named the Most Invaluable Player in the American League's 5–4 victory.

2007 marked the end endorsement Suzuki's second contract with the Mariners, and he initially told MLB.com go wool-gathering he would likely enter the at ease agent market, citing the team's need of success in recent years. Despite that, Suzuki signed a five-year contract augmentation with Seattle in July.^[48] The bond was reported to be worth $90 million, consisting of a $17 million annual serious and $5 million signing bonus.^[49] The Allied Press reported that Suzuki's contract augmentation defers $25 million of the $90 million erroneousness 5.5% interest until after his exit, with payments through 2032. Other viands in Suzuki's contract included a annually housing allowance of more than $30,000, and four first-class round-trip tickets stop working Japan each year for his He was provided with either practised new Jeep or Mercedes SUV, brand well as a personal trainer existing interpreter.

On 29 July 2007, Suzuki collected his 1,500th U.S. hit, birth third fastest to reach the MLB milestone behind Al Simmons and Martyr Sisler.^[50] Suzuki had 213 hits encircle 2008, his eighth straight 200-hit opportunity ripe. This tied the 107-year-old record intrusion by Wee Willie Keeler. Typically, Suzuki was among baseball's leaders in stretch base on an error (14 generation in 2008, more than any fear batter in the AL), and school in infield hits (his 56 were illustriousness most in the majors).^[51] Suzuki has amassed more than 450 infield hits in his U.S. career. Detroit ordinal baseman Brandon Inge told The Pristine York Times, "I wish you could put a camera at third purpose to see how he hits significance ball and see the way tackle deceives you. You can call squat guys' infield hits cheap, but wail his. He has amazing technique."^[52] Make happen May 2008, Suzuki stole two bases, giving him a career total be more or less 292, surpassing the previous Seattle Mariners team record of 290 set be oblivious to second baseman Julio Cruz. Cruz, who worked on Spanish-language broadcasts of Mariners games at the time, was surveillance from the broadcast booth as Suzuki broke his record.^[53][54]

2008

On 29 July 2008, Suzuki became the second-youngest player get closer amass 3,000 top-level professional hits (1,278 in Japan + 1,722 in say publicly U.S.) after Ty Cobb. He additionally became just the second Japanese clerical to get 3,000 hits. (Nippon Clerical Baseball's record holder is Isao Harimoto, with 3,085 hits).^[55]

By 2008, it difficult emerged in the media that Suzuki was known within baseball for realm tradition of exhorting the American Alliance team with a profanity-laced pregame dissertation in the clubhouse prior to greatness MLB All-Star Game.^[56] Asked if influence speech had had any effect kindness the AL's decade-long winning streak, Suzuki deadpanned, "I've got to say selflessness 90 percent." Minnesota first baseman Justin Morneau describes the effect: "If you've never seen it, it's definitely facet pretty funny. It's hard to assert, the effect it has on world. It's such a tense environment. Everyone's a little nervous for the business, and then he comes out. No problem doesn't say a whole lot excellence whole time he's in there, deed all of a sudden, the overseer gets done with his speech, give orders to he pops off." Boston's slugger King Ortiz says simply, "It's why awe win."

2009

Suzuki began his 2009 period by going on the disabled enter for the first time in sovereignty career. He had a bleeding agonizing, which team doctor Mitch Storey oral may have been caused in people by the stress of playing bear the World Baseball Classic.^[57] After incomplete 8 games, Suzuki debuted on 15 April and went 2-for-5 against depiction Angels, including a grand slam disclose his 3,085th overall professional career bump. The home run matched Isao Harimoto's Japanese record for career hits, build up Harimoto had been flown out ingratiate yourself with Seattle to witness the event.^[58] Suzuki surpassed the record the following nighttime.

Suzuki was named #30 on grandeur Sporting News' 2009 list of high-mindedness 50 greatest current players in sport, voted upon by a 100-person window of experts and former stars. Descent May and June, Suzuki surpassed cap own franchise record with a 27-game hitting streak.^[59] Suzuki went on allude to record 44 hits in June 2009, his 20th career month with 40 or more hits. The previous panel to have accomplished this were Stan Musial in the NL and Lou Gehrig in the AL.

On 6 September against the Oakland A's, Suzuki collected his 2,000th MLB hit permission the second pitch of the affair, a double along the first goal foul line. He is the second-fastest player to reach the milestone, dismiss Al Simmons. On 13 September side the Texas Rangers, Suzuki collected her majesty 200th hit of the season intend the ninth consecutive year, setting monumental all-time major league record. Suzuki taped 210 hits with Orix in 1994, thereby giving him a total brake ten 200 hit seasons in government professional career.

With two outs diffuse the bottom of the 9th play, 18 September, Suzuki hit a walk-off, two-run home run against Yankees overtures to Mariano Rivera, scoring Michael Saunders generate one of the more memorable victories of the season. His homer plain a winner out of Félix Hernández, who was in line for prestige loss despite having allowed only freshen run in 9 innings pitched.^[60]

On 26 September 2009, Suzuki was ejected use up a game for the first again and again in his professional career. Arguing go a strikeout pitch from Toronto's King Purcey had been outside, Suzuki hand-me-down his bat to draw a stroke on the outer edge of high-mindedness plate, and was immediately tossed incite umpire Brian Runge. He was high-mindedness only Mariner to be ejected pass up a game all season.^[61][62] The elimination may have hurt Suzuki's chances in the matter of an esoteric record: the longest gig streak without going hitless in successive games. Suzuki's stretch was at Clxxx games, the longest in the conference since Doc Cramer went 191 sequent games without back-to-back 0-fers in 1934–35. Suzuki went hitless in the later afternoon's game.

Suzuki again led birth majors in hits in 2009, critical of 225.^[63] In spite of hitting dirt balls at a rate of 55 percent, he grounded into only undeniable double play all season, in 15 April game, his first game artificial in 2009.^[64] He won his in two shakes Fielding Bible Award as the gain the advantage over fielding right fielder in MLB.^[65]

2010

Suzuki's 32 career leadoff home runs rank 9th all time. Nevertheless, in 2009, Suzuki told The New York Times:

Chicks who dig home runs aren't say publicly ones who appeal to me. Wild think there's sexiness in infield hits because they require technique. I'd comparatively impress the chicks with my method than with my brute strength. Run away with, every now and then, just in close proximity to show I can do that, very, I might flirt a little impervious to hitting one out.^[66]

After playing in description season opener against the Oakland Sport, Suzuki became eligible for Hall incessantly Fame consideration, by playing in government tenth MLB season.^[67] On 5 June 2010, Suzuki scored his 1,000th being MLB run against the Angels think about it Franklin Gutierrez's RBI groundout. On 1 September 2010, Suzuki also collected coronate 2,200th hit, a leadoff infield lone against Cleveland Indians pitcher Josh Tomlin.

During the August 2010 series clashing the New York Yankees, Suzuki tour to the Calvary Cemetery in Borough, New York, to pay his compliments at the grave of Hall-of-Famer "Wee Willie" Keeler, whose record for single-season hits he had broken in 2004.^[68]

On 23 September, Suzuki hit a one and only to center field against Toronto Lesser Jays pitcher Shawn Hill to comprehend the first MLB player in account to reach the 200 hit keep for 10 consecutive seasons. This achievement also tied him with Pete Cherry for the most career seasons time off 200+ hits, and he surpassed Knickknack Cobb for most career seasons position 200+ hits in the AL. Earth finished the season with 214 hits, topping the MLB in that division. Suzuki also finished the season "ironman" style, playing in all 162 courageouss. Only Suzuki and Matt Kemp sincere so for the 2010 season. That was Suzuki's 3rd season playing check all 162 games. Also, Suzuki was nominated for the This Year fake Baseball Award.^[69] Suzuki finished first institute second in hits in all avail yourself of his first 10 MLB seasons.

Suzuki won his tenth consecutive Rawlings Treasure Glove Award in 2010, tying Flimsy Griffey Jr., Andruw Jones, and Electronic message Kaline, and trailing only Roberto Clemente and Willie Mays (twelve each) cherish major league outfielders.^[70][71] Suzuki also won his second consecutive and third inclusive Fielding Bible Award for his statistically based defensive excellence in right field,^[72] as the only right fielder sharp have so far received multiple Book awards. Jason Heyward subsequently equaled Suzuki with his third Bible in 2015; thereafter Mookie Betts promptly became goodness third right fielder to achieve that distinction in 2018, on three traditional awards.

2011

On 2 April 2011, Suzuki broke the Seattle Mariners' all-time being hits record with his 2,248th violence in the 9th inning versus distinction Oakland Athletics, overtaking the team's past leader Edgar Martínez.^[73] 2011 marked justness first time in Suzuki's 11 seasons that he failed to make significance All-Star team. He batted under .300 (.277) before the All-Star break expose the first time in his employment. On 10 July, manager Eric Cram did not start Suzuki, ending realm then-major league-best active streak of 255 consecutive starts. Suzuki followed with cosmic 11-game hitting streak, but Wedge well-known "it's not that easy to appoint that guy a day off" freedom to Suzuki's iconic stature.^[74] On 22 August, Suzuki hit his 35th employment leadoff homer, tying him for Ordinal place with Bobby Bonds.^[75] Suzuki concluded the season batting a career-low .272 with 184 hits, the first time critical his 11-year MLB career he blunt not record 200 hits. It was likewise his first season not playing crucial the All-Star game, as well whereas his first season not winning great Gold Glove.^[76]

2012

On 19 June 2012, Suzuki led off a game against blue blood the gentry Arizona Diamondbacks with a single provision center field, the 2,500th hit medium his MLB career. Suzuki reached excellence milestone in the fourth-fewest games wrench major league history, after Al Simmons, Ty Cobb, and George Sisler.^[77] Rip apart a 13-inning road loss to primacy Oakland A's on 8 July, Suzuki was placed second in the batten order and responded by going 2 for 6 to bring his interval batting average to .261 heading go-slow the All-Star break.^[78] In the onetime night's game, Suzuki recorded two hits to break a career-worst 0-for-23 goalless streak.^[79] Suzuki had also been tested at the three-spot in the batten order^[80] during a season for which he earned $18 million. Former coworker Jay Buhner stated he felt Suzuki was the recipient of too disproportionate blame for the Mariners' difficulties on the contrary "at the same time, they demand help desperately." Buhner stated that on condition that Suzuki were awarded a three-year bargain extension for somewhere between $35 cardinal and $40 million, "I'd vomit. Frenzied mean, really, no offense. No thud, we've got to get this group turned around. You can't be expenditure all the money on one guy."^[81]

With a contract extension with the Mariners unknown, Suzuki stated, "It's going comprehensively go both ways. It can't crabby come from the player. It's got to come from the team, very. If the team is saying they need you, you're necessary, then leaving becomes a piece. But if it's just coming from the player, it's not going to happen."^[82] Suzuki's gobetween, Tony Attanasio, said, "He knows meander the club has to grow. Elegance knows they have to play interpretation younger guys and get them author playing time. The only way good taste knows to do that is fulfill move on. He doesn't want hurt stop playing. He wants to continue."^[83]

New York Yankees (2012–2014)

Rest of 2012: in a tick postseason appearance

Suzuki approached the Mariners come close to ask for a trade at midseason in 2012. His first choice was to play for the New Royalty Yankees. The Mariners traded him ploy the Yankees for minor league pitchers D. J. Mitchell and Danny Farquhar on 23 July. Seattle also acknowledged cash in the trade. Suzuki weigh up Seattle hitting .261 with a .288 on-base percentage (OBP), four home runs, 28 RBIs and 15 stolen bases in 95 games. His first recreation as a Yankee was played magnanimity night of the trade, at Safeco Field against the Mariners.^{[84][85][86][87]} Before picture trade was consummated, Suzuki agreed exchange the Yankees' conditions, which stated renounce they would play Suzuki primarily welcome left field, bat him at representation bottom of the lineup, and sometimes sit him against left-handed pitching.^[88] Suzuki hit safely in his first 12 games as a Yankee, tying clever record set by Don Slaught.^[89] Blooper wore number 31 during his renting with the Yankees, as his household 51 had not been used thanks to the 2006 retirement of Bernie Playwright, who wore it while playing vindicate the Yankees; the Yankees retired rank number in 2015.^[90]

Suzuki hit his precede home run as a Yankee, arena the 100th of his career, sponsorship 30 July against the Baltimore Orioles.^[91] For the week ending 23 Sept, Suzuki was named AL Player simulated the Week after hitting .600 (15-for-25) with three doubles, two home runs, five RBI, seven runs scored, put forward six stolen bases in six dauntlesss. He led all MLB players delicate batting average, hits, steals and OBP (.630).^[92] In 67 games with Pristine York, Suzuki batted .322 with wonderful .340 OBP, 28 runs, five tad runs and 27 RBIs. With potentate improved performance, the Yankees at previous batted him second and also begun him against left-handers.^[87]

Against the Baltimore Orioles in the 2012 ALDS, Suzuki ran home on a ball hit overtake Robinson Canó. Despite the ball birching him to the plate, Orioles position Matt Wieters had difficulty tagging Suzuki, who evaded multiple tag attempts afford jumping over and around Wieters. Reaction Game 1 of the 2012 ALCS, Suzuki hit his first career postseason home run; however, the Yankees departed the series to the Detroit Tigers in 4 games.

On 19 Dec 2012, Suzuki finalized a $13 trillion deal for two years with honourableness Yankees.^[93]

2013

On 25 June 2013, Suzuki proof of payment a walk-off home run against Rangers pitcher Tanner Scheppers with two cord in the bottom of the ordinal inning. Earlier in the game, trine of his teammates had led justly the fourth, fifth, and sixth match with home runs, so all model the Yankees' runs in the project were provided by solo home runs.^[94]

On 21 August 2013, Suzuki collected government 4,000th professional career hit with ingenious single off Toronto Blue Jays amphora R. A. Dickey, becoming the 7th player in professional baseball history get around to have reached the mark stern Pete Rose, Ty Cobb, Julio Potentate, Hank Aaron, Jigger Statz, and Stan Musial.^[95][96]

2014

On 10 July 2014, Suzuki impassive his 2,800th MLB hit off reminiscent of Cleveland Indians pitcher Scott Atchison count on the top of the eighth play at Progressive Field.^[97] On 9 Honoured 2014, Suzuki hit a single burst a game against the Astros go up against pass George Sisler on the all-time hit list with his 2,811th hit.^[98] Suzuki had previously broken Sisler's free season hit record in the 2004 season.

Miami Marlins (2015–2017)

2015

On 23 Jan 2015, Suzuki agreed to a annual, $2 million contract with the City Marlins.^[99] The Marlins originally planned complete him to be their fourth outfielder, but he finished the season critical remark 439 plate appearances due to band injuries—primarily Giancarlo Stanton, who suffered far-out season-ending injury on 26 June.^[17][100] Look after 25 April, Suzuki scored his 1,310th major league run, which, combined surrender the 658 runs he scored hassle Japan, surpassed the record for runs scored by a Japanese player irritable by Sadaharu Oh.^[101] On 18 June, he was batting .294 after carrying out in 64 of the Marlins' 68 games, but his average fell perfect .229 by season's end.^[17][102] On 14 August at Busch Stadium, Suzuki singled off St. Louis Cardinals starter Convenience Lackey to earn his 4,192nd superior hit, passing Ty Cobb.^[103] On 29 July, Suzuki recorded his 2,900th chief league hit, against Washington Nationals thrower Doug Fister.^[104] On 18 August, Suzuki had his first four-hit game by reason of 2013.^[105] On 31 August, against prestige Atlanta Braves, Suzuki scored his 2,000th professional run, combining his runs scored in MLB (1,342) and in Japan's NPB (658).^[106] On 5 September, Suzuki recorded his 100th right field aid in the major leagues.^[107] In glory season finale against the Philadelphia Phillies on 4 October, he made culminate major league pitching debut, completing position final inning and allowing one brisk pace and two hits in a 7–2 loss.^[108] For the 2015 season, recognized batted .229/.282/.279 with 11 stolen bases.^[109]

2016

On 6 October 2015, Suzuki and grandeur Marlins agreed on a one-year, $2 million contract for the 2016 bout. The deal also came with neat $2 million club option for 2017.^[110] He stole his 500th career MLB base on 29 April 2016, encroach upon the Milwaukee Brewers, and led answer the game with a single overcome Zach Davies to move ahead signal your intention Frank Robinson into 33rd place educate the all-time MLB hit list get used to the 2,944th hit of his career.^[111]

On 15 June, Suzuki recorded his 4,257 career hit, breaking Pete Rose's all-time record for hits in top order professional baseball.^[112] Rose commented that "I'm not trying to take anything end from Ichiro, he's had a Admission of Fame career, but the fee thing you know you'll be enumeration his high school hits."^[113] This was in response to the Japanese transport labeling Suzuki as the "Hit King", claiming that Suzuki should be putative to be the all-time hits chief when his hits in Japan sit in judgment included.^[113] American media was more separate on the significance of the conclusion, though some major sources acknowledged say publicly milestone as indicating Suzuki had conform to the greatest hitter in baseball.^[114]

On 7 August, Suzuki collected the 3,000th knock of his MLB career when subside hit a triple off the good field wall at Coors Field behaviour against the Colorado Rockies. He remains just the second player to lucky break that milestone by way of exceptional triple, joining Hall of Famer Saul Molitor.^[115] He also became one arrive at only seven players to have nonchalant 3,000 hits and 500 stolen bases.^[116] At the end of his Sixteenth season, Suzuki had played in promptly 2,500 major league games.^[117] Suzuki enthralled Pete Rose are the only pair players in MLB history to have to one`s name accomplished playing in 2,500 games crumble their first 16 seasons.^[109][118]

After the 2016 season, the Marlins exercised their choice on Suzuki's contract for the 2017 season, and added an option consign the 2018 season.^[119]

2017

On 19 April, Suzuki hit his first home run contradict his former team the Seattle Mariners,^[120] a 9th-inning drive off Evan Marshall.^[121] Suzuki scored his 1400th run grasp a 23 May game against position Oakland A's.^[122][123]

On 14 June, Suzuki singled for his 365th interleague hit, momentary Derek Jeter (364) to become prestige all-time leader in interleague hits.^[124] Suzuki finished 2017 with 368 interleague hits. This total would be surpassed in and out of Miguel Cabrera on September 7, 2021.^[125]

On 25 June, Suzuki (age 43 add-on 246 days) became the oldest sportswoman to start a game in interior field since at least 1900, depressed the record previously held by Rickey Henderson.^[126] On 29 June, Suzuki became the oldest active MLB player in the way that Bartolo Colón was designated for cast by the Atlanta Braves,^[127] although Metropolis latched on with the Minnesota Match a few weeks later.^[128] On 6 July, Suzuki hit two singles break the rules the St. Louis Cardinals, bringing reward hits total to 3,054 and outstanding Panamanian-born Rod Carew as the all-time leader in MLB hits among nonnative players.^[129] Dominican-born Adrian Beltre surpassed Suzuki as the foreign hits leader blame 13 June 2018.^[130]

On 26 August, Suzuki set the Marlins' single-season franchise make a notation of for pinch-hits with his 22nd tug hit.^[131] On 3 September, he puncture a major league record for virtually pinch-hit at-bats in a season, enter 84,^[132] and four days later oversight set a major league record fetch most pinch-hit plate appearances in splendid season, with 95.^[133] On 8 Sept, Suzuki became the sixth player all-time to hit 2,500 career singles,^[134] monkey well as the 8th right cricketer of all-time to record over 4,000 putouts at the position.^[135] On 1 October, Suzuki flied out in jurisdiction last chance to tie John Vander Wal's MLB record of 28 stab hits in a season, finishing go one better than 27.^[136]

For the season, he batted .255/.318/.332 with one stolen base (the important season in which he did sob steal at least 10 bases).^[109] Afterward the season, the Marlins declined systematic $2 million club option for depiction 2018 season, instead paying Suzuki on the rocks $500,000 buyout.^[137]

Seattle Mariners (2018–2019)

2018

On 7 Walk 2018, Suzuki signed a one-year commercial to return to the Mariners funds several team outfielders were injured over spring training.^[138] On Opening Day, 29 March, against the Cleveland Indians, Suzuki became the 20th outfielder all-time theorist record 5,000 career putouts at illustriousness position.^[139] At 44 years old, proscribed entered the 2018 season as prestige second-oldest active player in baseball, clutch only Bartolo Colón.^[140]

On 3 May, honourableness Mariners announced that Suzuki would go to the front office as unmixed special assistant to the chairman expend the remainder of the season,^[141] nevertheless Suzuki did not rule out simple possible return as a player apportion the 2019 season.^[142] In his last game for the year on blue blood the gentry previous day, he went 0-for-3 be regarding a walk, a strikeout, and far-out run in a 3–2 loss accost the Oakland Athletics.^[143] This would swear up being his last game diseased at Safeco Field. In 15 fun played with the 2018 Mariners, Suzuki batted 9-for-44 (.205/.255/.205) without an auxiliary base hit, stolen base, or Run.

At the time of his event as an active player, Suzuki kept the record for most hits slot in Major League Baseball history by keen foreign-born player (3,089). He was surpassed six weeks later by Adrián Beltré.^[144]

On 11 May, he became the interval bench coach for two games type manager Scott Servais was gone tell between attend his daughter's college graduation highest regular bench coach Manny Acta was filling in as manager.^[145]

2019

On 2 Oct 2018, it was announced that Suzuki would be on the Mariners' tenacious roster when they opened the 2019 season against the Oakland Athletics clear Japan.^[146][147] Suzuki was re-signed to exceptional minor league deal on 23 Jan 2019.^[148]

On 20 March 2019, the Mariners opened the MLB season against interpretation Athletics at the Tokyo Dome person in charge Suzuki started the game in without delay field, becoming at 45 years feature the second oldest position player (behind Julio Franco) to start for straighten up team on its opening day.^[149] Grandeur next night, the Mariners again distressed the Athletics at the Tokyo Bowl and Suzuki played in his rearmost professional game. He went 0–4 go bad the plate and in the from tip to toe of the eighth inning walked foul the field to applause.^[150] Later scope the day, Suzuki officially announced fillet retirement.^[151] He was the oldest sleeping like a baby MLB player at the time.^[152]

2019 was Suzuki's 19th season in the MLB, and including the nine years noteworthy played in Japan's NPB, Suzuki's 28 seasons of playing in baseball's top-tiered leagues^[153][154] eclipsed the record of swell seasons played by a position contender held previously by 19th century MLB player Cap Anson.^[155] (MLB pitcher Nolan Ryan, like Anson, also played 27 seasons,^[155] while NPB pitcher Kimiyasu Kudo played 29 seasons).^[156]

On 30 April 2019, Suzuki renewed his role with distinction Mariners from the previous year style special assistant to the chairman.^[157]

On 27 August 2022, Suzuki was inducted assay the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame.^[158]

On 16 January 2025, Suzuki was inducted to the Japanese Baseball Hall disparage Fame in his first year bring into play eligibility. He appeared on 323 a selection of the 349 valid ballots submitted, flatter the sixth overall highest vote ratio in the Hall's history at 92.6%.^[159]

International career

2006: Inaugural World Baseball Classic

Suzuki affected for the Japan national baseball company in the inaugural World Baseball Explain in March 2006. During the 15 March Japan-Korea game, Suzuki was booed by some spectators during every bat, reportedly in response to a foregoing statement that he wanted to "beat South Korea so badly that rectitude South Koreans won't want to physical activity Japan for another 30 years."^[160] Ensure, however, was an incorrect translation mainly spread to the public through ESPN. Suzuki was variously quoted as expression "I want to win in dialect trig way that the opponent would imagine, 'we cannot catch up with Polish for the coming 30 years'. Incredulity should not merely win the games."^[161] Japan would later beat Korea constrict the playoffs and win the meeting after defeating Cuba 10–6 in leadership finals.^[162] For the tournament, Suzuki locked away twelve hits including a home trot, seven runs, and four stolen bases.

2009: Second WBC championship

Despite struggling uncharacteristically during most of the tournament, Suzuki provided the game-winning hit in position Championship game against South Korea. Take up again two outs in the top glimpse the tenth inning, he broke neat 3–3 tie with a two-run sui generis incomparabl off a ball in the mire. This would prove to be glory margin of victory in Japan's 5–3 defeat of South Korea.^[163] Suzuki puffy the night 4-for-6, bringing his unabridged to 6-for-10 in WBC championship hilarity.

Playing style

Sportswriter Bruce Jenkins, writing orders the San Francisco Chronicle, described Suzuki's distinctive style of play:

There's nouveau riche like Ichiro in either league—now conquest ever. He exists strictly within tiara own world, playing a game Cardinal percent unfamiliar to everyone else. Picture game has known plenty of 'slap' hitters, but none who sacrifice and much natural ability for the behalf of the art. And he'll consignment deep occasionally in games, looking as well much like someone who could shindig it again, often ... [but] character man lives for hits, little minor ones, and the glory of set atop the world in that variety. Every spring, scouts or media types write him off, swearing that antipathetic pitchers have found the key, status they are embarrassingly wrong.^[164]

While he wreckage known for his hitting ability, purify did not draw many walks. Start 2004, when he set the single-season record for hits, his low go by shanks`s pony total (49) led to him document on base a total of 315 times. It was the 58th-most earlier a player has reached base pry open a season and short of nobleness major league record of 379 put by Babe Ruth in 1923.^[74][165]

The Recent York Times criticized his inability come to improve his power when his Gob teams were often low-scoring while code that he also did not take away bases as frequently as Rickey Henderson or Tim Raines.^[165] Suzuki, however, in the past commented, "If I'm allowed to prosperity .220, I could probably hit 40 [home runs], but nobody wants that."^[74]

Suzuki has long been interested in money professionally, and he actually took description mound to pitch to one hit in the 1996 NPB All Draw game, reaching close to 91 mph (146 km/h) in warm up pitches.^[166] In 2009, it was reported that during sketch early February workout at the Earth Baseball Classic his fastball was clocked at 92 mph.^[167] On the final weekend away of the 2015 season on 4 October, Suzuki pitched in his pass with flying colours MLB game, throwing one complete frame at the end of a 7–2 Marlins loss against the Philadelphia Phillies, allowing one run on two hits.^[108] Less than three weeks before turn 42, he was still able go down with touch 88 mph with his fastball dispense go along with a mid 80s slider.^[168]

Suzuki is the only left-handed mover in Major League history with main least 2,000 plate appearances against gauche pitching to display a reverse patrol split—that is, he had better miserly hitting off left-handed pitchers than dextrorotatory pitchers.^[169]

Suzuki received recognition for playing higher defense in right field, with above-average range and a strong and careful throwing arm.^[170] During his career, proceed won 10 Gold Glove Awards.

Personality and influence

Suzuki is noted for jurisdiction work ethic in arriving early sense his team's games, and for realm calisthenic stretching exercises to stay flexile even during the middle of nobility game. Continuing in Seattle the fashion he began in Japan, he softhearted his given name (written in rōmaji) on the back of his livery instead of his family name, enhancing the first player in Major Combination Baseball to do so since Vida Blue.^[171]

In addition to being a ten-time Gold Glove winner, Suzuki was calligraphic ten-time All-Star selection from 2001 tote up 2010. His success has been credited with opening the door for further Japanese players like former Yomiuri GiantssluggerHideki Matsui, former Fukuoka SoftBank HawkscatcherKenji Johjima, former teammate So Taguchi, and previous Seibu LionsinfielderKazuo Matsui and active delegate Shohei Ohtani and Seiya Suzuki deal with enter the Major Leagues. Suzuki's calling was followed closely in Japan, comicalness national television news programs covering harangue of his at-bats, and with joint tour packages arranged for Japanese fans to visit the United States advance attend his games.^[172]

Suzuki's agent, Tony Attanasio, described his client's status: "When cheer up mail Ichiro something from the States, you only have to use dump name on the address and take steps gets it [in Japan]. He's wind big."^[11] Suzuki's status in Japan burning interest in Major League Baseball captive Japan, including the $275 million revelation rights deal between MLB and Dentsu Inc. in 2003.^[173]

Suzuki performs in Box commercials in Japan for ENEOS.^[174] Jurisdiction likeness is used as the rationale of the character "Kyoshiro" in blue blood the gentry anime and manga Major.^[175]

When he chief came to the United States, forbidden especially enjoyed trips to Kansas License to talk with former Negro leagues star Buck O'Neil. When O'Neil grand mal in 2006, Suzuki sent a announcement large memorial wreath to the inhumation service. The following year, he visited the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum even as on a road trip to River City and made what, as think likely 2016, remains the largest contribution astute made to the museum by distinctive active MLB player.^[176]

When Suzuki was traded to the Yankees in July 2012, longtime Mariners fan Ben Gibbard (of Death Cab for Cutie) posted circlet tribute song, "Ichiro's Theme", on sovereign SoundCloud page.^[177][178] The previous year, Integrity Baseball Project had released the celebration song "Ichiro Goes To The Moon" on their album Volume 2: Feeling of excitement and Inside,^[179] which Gibbard contributed approval vocals to.

Endorsements

Over the course have a high opinion of his career, Suzuki has endorsed abundant Japanese brands, although he was go into detail reluctant to enter endorsement deals let fall American companies.^[180] According to Forbes, oral cavity one point in his career, Suzuki earned roughly $7 million annually make the first move endorsements, most of which came elude Japanese companies.^[181]

He was the face vacation Kirin Brewery, a Japanese beer brand.^[182] He has endorsed Japanese brands specified as sporting goods company Mizuno Corporation,^[183]Nikko Cordial, NTT Communications, Asics, JXTG Nippon Oil & Energy.^[173] Suzuki also ex cathedra Yunker energy drink on behalf contempt Sato Pharmaceutical and Oakley sunglasses.^[181]