Ichiro Weekend in Seattle full of emotion, memories

SEATTLE — The three-day weekend surrounding Ichiro’s induction into the Seattle Mariners Hall of Fame on Aug. 27 was one of the more emotional events I have experienced. Ichiro made three appearances, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and every time he took center stage the fans, many wearing Ichiro 51 jerseys, erupted into a thunderous cheer. It was unabashed, pure love.

The emotion was overwhelming, especially after Ichiro’s 16-minute acceptance speech following his induction, which he delivered in English, and which was filled with memorable lines:

“If a skinny guy like me can make it, anyone can.”

And:

“I owe everything to my wife Yumiko.”

And

“It is safer here in front of the mic than sitting next to Ken Griffey Jr., famous prankster. He might glue me to my seat.”