Baseball sensation Ichiro Suzuki dominates against a Japanese high school girls' team
Retired MLB legend, Ichiro Suzuki, continues to amaze as he dominates against a high school girls' team in Japan, showcasing his undying passion for the sport
Ichiro Suzuki may have ended his professional baseball career four years ago, but his passion for the game remains as strong as ever. Despite being 50 years old, the former MLB outfielder is now finding joy in playing as a pitcher, showcasing his enduring love for the sport. His outstanding career has positioned him as a potential future Hall of Famer in the world of baseball.
During Ichiro's annual All-Star game on Tuesday, a Japanese high school girls team discovered his impressive throwing skills. The game, initiated two years ago, aims to promote women's participation in baseball in Japan, and Ichiro fully embraced the initiative.
As per MLB.com, Ichiro pitched a complete game shutout, throwing 116 pitches and striking out nine batters in the 4-0 victory at the Tokyo Dome. He also surprised everyone by throwing an 86-miles-per-hour fastball, causing a stir among some of the best hitters in the world.
Ichiro was joined in the game by former MLB pitcher Daisuke Matsuzaka, known for his time with the Boston Red Sox and New York Mets, before retiring from professional baseball in 2021. The two were excited to showcase their skills once again. In addition to his pitching abilities, Ichiro also managed to secure two hits in the game, a relief after going hitless in the last two years of the exhibition contest, as reported by MLB.com.
"Following the game, Ichiro expressed his satisfaction at achieving a hit and expressed his desire to continue training in order to inspire female athletes," reported Japanese broadcaster NHK.
The former Seattle Mariners star did not hold back.
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The Japanese player's performance greatly motivated the opposing team during the game, and being able to strike out Ichiro was a memorable moment that filled the aspiring young athlete with excitement.
"I was really anticipating this match with Ichiro. I was determined to win, but the opportunity to strike him out is a memory that I will always treasure," Domae said on Japan's TBS Sports.
"After striking out Ichiro, I feel confident in my ability to compete in future matches." Domae was praised by Ichiro, who told him, "I rarely get struck out, so you should be proud of yourself."
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Ichiros career in the professional league began with the Orix Blue Wave of Japans Pacific League on July 11, 1992. During his time in Japan from 1992-2000, he achieved three consecutive MVP awards and seven straight batting titles.
In 2001, when he joined the Seattle Mariners, Ichiro left a lasting impression as the first Japanese position player to sign with an MLB team. That year, he achieved the remarkable feat of winning both the American League MVP and Rookie of the Year awards, making him only the second player ever to achieve both honors in the same season.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Orix Buffaloes pitches in the 1st inning against the Hanshin Tigers during Game Six of the Japan Series at Kyocera Dome Osaka on November 4, 2023 in Osaka, Japan. (Photo by The Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images)
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From 2001-2010, Ichiro won 10 consecutive Gold Glove Awards and made 10 straight trips to the All-Star Game.
He reached a milestone in 2016 by recording his 3,000th MLB hit, placing him among the elite players to achieve this feat. Throughout his MLB career, Ichiro played for the Mariners, New York Yankees, and Miami Marlins.
Following Tuesday's game, Ichiro had some good news for fans eager to see him back on the field. He emphasized that the series would continue, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming energy from everyone and describing it as the happiest moment for him, Matsuzaka, and the high school team. He thanked everyone for their support.
"Especially for the female high school athletes who plan to pursue this sport, I hope to be their inspiration. I am committed to continuing my training, as is Matsuzaka. My goal is to compete again next year at the Tokyo Dome!"
