MLB Logo icon

Ichiro's storied career

2001: Coming to America

After 9 years in NPB (and 1,278 hits), Ichiro became the first Japanese-born position player in MLB after signing with Seattle

This browser does not support the video element.

April 2, 2001: First of many

In his first game, Ichiro knocks career hit No. 1 up the middle past Miguel Tejada

This browser does not support the video element.

April 11, 2001: The Throw

The throw heard around the world showcased Suzuki's stellar skills in the field. In his storied 19-year MLB career, he won 10 consecutive Gold Glove Awards

2001: A Year to Remember

Suzuki finished his debut season as AL Rookie of the Year, AL MVP, an All-Star, Silver Slugger recipient and Gold Glove winner. He led the league in hits (242) and stolen bases (56), and the AL in BA (.350)

This browser does not support the video element.

Oct. 1, 2004: All-time Leader

Ichiro shattered George Sisler's 84-year-old record for most hits in a season with his 258th of the season. He finished with 262 for the year

This browser does not support the video element.

July 10, 2007: Star power

Ichiro hit the only inside-the-park HR in ASG history in San Francisco. He was named ASG MVP. Ichiro was named to 10 consecutive All-Star teams in his MLB career

This browser does not support the video element.

2009: Global Icon

Ichiro represented Team Japan in the 2006 & 2009 World Baseball Classics. He won gold both years.

2012: Pinstripes

The Yankees acquired Suzuki in a midseason trade. He went on to spend two more years in Bronx, hitting his 1st postseason HR in 2012

This browser does not support the video element.

Aug. 7, 2016: No. 3,000

The acclaimed star reached new heights during his time in Miami. He notched his 3,000th MLB hit, and the 4,257th of his overall career. This hit put him ahead of Pete Rose for most hits in professional baseball (including NPB career)

2018: Homecoming

Ichiro returned to the Mariners and soon transitioned to a coaching role ...

This browser does not support the video element.

March 31, 2018: Same ol' Ichiro

... But not before showing off his Gold Glove skills one last time at age 44. He won 10 consecutive Gold Glove Awards between 2001 and 2010

2019: Proper Goodbye

Ichiro suited up one final time for the Mariners, this time in front of his hometown crowd in Japan. He announced his retirement that day

Aug. 27, 2022: Legend

The Mariners inducted Ichiro into their Hall of Fame, officially cementing his place in Seattle history

This browser does not support the video element.

Jan. 21, 2025: First but not the last

Ichiro became the 1st Japanese player elected into the Hall of Fame, one vote shy of a unanimous selection

No. 51

The same day Ichiro was elected, Seattle retired No. 51, and will do so in 2026 for Randy Johnson as well