So this week marked the end of a remarkable career. Despite the late start (he spent 9 years playing in Japan before coming over to the Mariners in 2001), Ichiro still easily carved out a Hall of Fame career, starting by winning League MVP and ROY in the same year and breaking the all time single season hits record with 262. He had 10 straight 200+ hit seasons (which in unbelievable), was a 10 time All Star and has numerous accolades on his resume. Ichiro's influence on other Japanese born players cannot be mearsured, to put simply, Ichiro is a legend. He went out in front of him home country this past week, as part of the 2 game opening day stand against the A's, and it was site to see. To able to play his final MLB games in front his countrymen had to be such a surreal moment for him. It was also emotional, as evidenced by new Mariners pitcher Yusei Kikuchi being so overwhelming he starting to cry as he was embracing Ichiro. The amount of respect everyone has for Ichiro shows not only what kind of player he was, but also what kind of man he was. It's definitely the end of a remarkable era. For me personally, although I never PC'd Ichiro (his stuff was always so expensive!) I do have two things of Ichiro that stand out in my collection. In honor of his retirement, I'm reshowing them in tribute. They are definitely huge parts of my collection.
From the loaded Topps Tier Case I opened last year. I had already absolutely killed this break with a Jeter Auto numbered to 15, a Giancarlo Stanton Platinum Patch #1/1, an Ozzie Smith/Paul DeJong Dual Auto, and a Big Mac Auto. But to put a cherry on top of this was in the very last pack of the break. Not only was it an Ichiro Triple Patch/Auto but a #1/1 to boot! It was such an unbelievable pull and I was so thrilled to pull such a big card. It's definitely a favorite in my collection, even more special that I pulled it myself.
And of course one of the biggest prized possessions in my entire collection. A game used autographed Ichiro jersey from the 2015 season. MLB Authenticated, this is just a jaw dropping piece of memorabilia and it's so awesome to own such an amazing piece. Doesn't get any better than a jersey that Ichiro actually wore in an MLB game.
Thanks for the memories Ichiro, can't wait until you get inducted into the Hall of Fame as a no doubt (hopefully unanimous) 1st ballot selection
