Ichiro Suzuki, renowned for his exceptional ability to poke singles into the outfield, delivered a stunning performance during his Hall of Fame induction speech on Sunday. Known for his incredible career, Suzuki took the opportunity to share a few laughs, notably poking fun at the Miami Marlins, the team that signed him in 2015 and for which he played three seasons toward the end of his illustrious journey.
In a lighthearted moment that elicited thunderous laughter from the audience in Cooperstown, Ichiro remarked, “And to the Miami Marlins: I appreciate David Samson and Mike Hill for coming today. Honestly, when you guys called to offer me a contract for 2015, I had never heard of your team.” This humorous jab at the Marlins encapsulated Suzuki’s playful spirit and showcased his ability to connect with fans and fellow players.
Ichiro Suzuki, who was nearly a unanimous selection for the Hall of Fame, chose to deliver his speech in English. This decision marked a significant achievement for the former player, who had not spoken the language publicly for much of his career after moving from Japan. His ability to communicate directly with the audience added a personal touch to the ceremony, making his induction even more memorable.
While Suzuki had his fun at the expense of the Marlins, he also took a moment to acknowledge his former Yankees teammates. Reflecting on his three seasons with the Yankees from 2012 to 2014, Ichiro noted, “I know you guys are really here today for CC, but that’s okay. He deserves your love.” This statement highlighted the camaraderie and respect Suzuki had for his teammates, particularly for CC Sabathia, who was also honored during the ceremony.
Although Suzuki was no longer the superstar AL MVP candidate he had been with the Seattle Mariners, he still produced impressive numbers during his time with the Yankees. In 2012, after being traded to the Yankees before the trade deadline, he maintained a .322 batting average. This performance contributed to the team's success, as the Yankees won 95 games that season, although they ultimately fell to the Detroit Tigers in the American League Championship Series.
Ichiro Suzuki's journey in professional baseball spanned an incredible 19 years in Major League Baseball (MLB), not including the nine years he spent playing in Japanese baseball for the Orix BlueWave. His dedication and skill have left an indelible mark on the sport, making his Hall of Fame induction a fitting tribute to a legendary career.
