Ichiro Suzuki agrees to minor league deal with Mariners

And I don't think it was because Howe was eating Japanese Curry, or Japanese anything.

Apparently, poutine is the key to longevity.

I read a really good article on Ichiro a while ago, and it is kind of a sad story.

I'm pretty sure I read the same article. I believe Ichiro said that once he stopped playing baseball he would just die. It is troubling, and it's not because he's your stereotypical job-obsessed Japanese workaholic. Matsui Hideki is Japanese, and he knew when to call it quits for good in 2012. I remember when Matsui left Japan and signed with the Yankees in 2003, Japanese commentators said it was important because Matsui was "normal." The implication being that Ichiro, who had signed with the Mariners two years earlier in 2001, was not normal.

Ganbare Japan!Today  05:00 pm JST

When you are still good enough, better than most people half your age, 45 is just a number. Look at King Kazu, 50 and still plays pro soccer. Keep eating the Japanese Curry for breakfast every day, Ichiro-san, and keep playing!

If he was still playing ice hockey (much more demanding sport than baseball or soccer) at the age 52, like Gordie Howe did, then I would be impressed.

And I don't think it was because Howe was eating Japanese Curry, or Japanese anything.

The player contract is just so Ichiro could play the MLB games in Japan

After that, he's going to go back up to the front office

He's not going to play the whole season

Hello, I would pay serious cash to see Ichiro any day. He is charismatic and at 45, an inspiration.

It is to appeal to their Japanese fan base, many of which, probably still think of him as a top-tier player, which he clearly hasn't been in many years. Publicity stunt.

Don't think J fans are 'that' dumb tbh, they know Ichiro's well past his prime but he's a legend of the game. Agree it's all about pleasing J sponsors/media etc though. Washed up, semi retired players do put bums on seats, fact! (in all sports/countries).

I read a really good article on Ichiro a while ago, and it is kind of a sad story. All he has done all his life is train for, and play baseball. He can't quit playing because it would leave him feeling helpless and useless apparently. At least that's what the article said. The man has never done anything else and can't imagine a life without playing the game. I hope he finds the peace he needs to enjoy retirement someday.

Honestly, he should retire and take on coaching. He would be a great batting and stealing coach.

Why? When you are still good enough, better than most people half your age, 45 is just a number. Look at King Kazu, 50 and still plays pro soccer. Keep eating the Japanese Curry for breakfast every day, Ichiro-san, and keep playing!

Honestly, he should retire and take on coaching. He would be a great batting and stealing coach.

I wonder if Ichiro would be willing to come off the bench instead of starting; if there's anyone who could be one of the best pinch hitters in the game, it's him. His preparation; his discipline -- I'd love to see him as a super-sub for the Mariners or any other team.

I like the guy a lot but his time is way up. Only the Mariners would even bother. It is to appeal to their Japanese fan base, many of which, probably still think of him as a top-tier player, which he clearly hasn't been in many years. Publicity stunt.

Amazing at 45! Great to see Ichiro back playing, I hope for another 2-3 seasons. The “front office” work was probably too boring for him!