Prior to 2001, only Japanese pitchers had made the journey stateside to play in the MLB. When Ichiro Suzuki arrived, many experts as well as fans were skeptical whether or not he would make much of an impact.
Over a decade later, I think it’s safe to say that Ichiro has done that and more. In fact, Ichiro has played so well over this time that, for many, a season in which he hit only .272 with 184 hits as he approaches an age where most ball players are retired was considered a disappointment.
It’s with that sentiment in mind that I thought it might be fun to look back and review some of the most special moments and achievements of Ichiro’s career since coming stateside in 2001.