Yesterday, the Yankees welcomed Japanese RF Ichiro Suzuki. After playing his whole career with the Seattle Mariners, Ichiro became tired of losing. He approached the Seattle management and asked to be traded to the New York Yankees. He told reporters he did this because he wanted Seattle to plan for the future. Seattle, in return, received two minor pitchers in the Yankees system.
After quickly cleaning out his locker room, Ichiro claimed his Yankees jersey. Wanting to start fresh, Ichiro chose number 31 instead of his normal 51. Also he did not want to take Bernie Williams' old number (51).
The veteran RF started his Yankee debut with a single and stolen base in his first plate appearance. He finished the day 1 for 4 but the Yankees came away with the win.
I have heard mixed reviews of this trade. Many believe both teams got a good deal. I believe both teams did. The Yankees are not looking for the Ichiro of old (although they would love it). The just want Ichiro to play every once and awhile and get on base as much as possible. As of now, Ichiro is the Yankees 8th batter. Not to bad to have Ichiro in the number 8 spot. With Gardner out for the year and Swisher coming back in a few days, Ichiro will play mostly LF and hit in the bottom of the order.
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