Times are changing in the MLB. The game is getting younger, faster, and more “viewer friendly”. As a result, there seems to be a changing of the guard as well. The youngsters are coming in and becoming huge difference makers on the field, and that can be perfectly exemplified by the emergence of Japanese star Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani is revolutionizing the game by offering upside both as a pitcher and a batter. The duo-threat is extremely rare in the MLB, as most players advance through the ranks specializing in on one side of the ball. Ohtani’s Japanese heritage helped to shape who he is now, and his status in the MLB was certainly helped along by the Japanese pioneers before him. None has been more meaningful than the contributions of Ichiro Suzuki.
Ichiro, who was known for many things including his fantastic eye and his cannon of an arm, was one of the first players to make the transition to the MLB. In fact, he was the first non-pitcher to come over, pushing the sport into a whole new territory. Just a few days ago, Ichiro announced his retirement from the MLB, eliminating the possibility of the two competing against each other in the MLB.
Ahead of the Angels-Mariners game, the two shared a special moment showcasing the evolution of Japanese baseball in North America.
As per MLB.com, Ohtani released the following statement.
“I have nothing but the utmost respect for him,” Ohtani said in a statement released by the Angels. “What he has done for this game, our country and the fans. I wish we could have played against him, but it wasn’t meant to be. Wish nothing but the best for him moving forward.”
Incredible to see the two Japanese legends interacting.
(H/T FTW)
