Seattle – Today, in honor of legendary Seattle Mariners’ player Ichiro Suzuki’s induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame weekend and the retirement of his jersey number, Mayor Bruce Harrell declared August 9 “Ichiro Day” in Seattle.
READ: Proclamation Celebrating Ichiro Suzuki
“Today, Seattle honors Ichiro Suzuki, a global icon whose inspirational career and unparalleled achievements broke barriers and have left an indelible mark on the sport of baseball and our city,” said Mayor Harrell. “His legacy of excellence, grace, and determination continues to inspire fans while showcasing the unifying power of sports across generations and cultures. By proclaiming today as Ichiro Day, we celebrate not only his historic Hall of Fame induction but also his enduring role as a cultural bridge and cherished member of our community.”
“Ichiro isn’t just a city of Seattle legend—he’s a global icon whose disciplined approach, tireless work ethic, and relentless pursuit of excellence has and continues to inspire generations,” said Councilmember Rob Saka. “Ichiro proved that greatness isn’t born, it’s built—through consistency, humility, meticulous routines and mental focus, and the mindset of a lifelong learner. We are proud to call Ichiro our hometown hero!”
City of Seattle Proclamation:
WHEREAS, Ichiro Suzuki is a transcendent figure in the history of baseball and one of the most iconic and influential athletes of his generation, bringing global acclaim to the sport and creating lasting memories for Seattle sports fans by redefining excellence, consistency, and dedication on the field; and
WHEREAS, Ichiro Suzuki began his professional career with the Orix BlueWave in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, where he earned seven consecutive batting titles, three league MVPs, and became the first Japanese player to reach 200 hits in a season – achievements that helped build a bridge between Japanese and American baseball; and
WHEREAS, in 2001, Ichiro Suzuki made history by becoming the first Japanese-born position player to play in Major League Baseball, signing with the Seattle Mariners and immediately capturing global attention by winning both the American League Rookie of the Year and MVP awards – a rare and historic feat that energized fans across the world; and
WHEREAS, over a storied MLB career that included 10 consecutive 200-hit seasons, 10 Gold Glove Awards, 10 All-Star selections, over 3,000 MLB hits, and a single-season hits record of 262, Ichiro Suzuki became known for his unmatched precision at the plate, speed on the bases, and defensive brilliance in the outfield; and
WHEREAS, Ichiro Suzuki’s combined hit total of 4,367 across his Japanese and MLB careers makes him the all-time professional baseball hit leader, a remarkable testament to his durability, preparation, and commitment to his craft – inspiring generations of athletes around the world; and
WHEREAS, Ichiro Suzuki was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025 with 99.7% of the vote, becoming the first Japanese-born player ever inducted, while also being enshrined in the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame the same year – solidifying his legacy as a truly international icon of the game; and
WHEREAS, Ichiro Suzuki has remained a proud ambassador for Seattle and the Mariners – mentoring young players, continuing to train and serve the organization, and contributing to civic pride and global visibility for our city through his humility, professionalism, and character; and
WHEREAS, the City of Seattle recognizes Ichiro Suzuki not only as one of the greatest baseball players of all time, but as a cultural ambassador, global trailblazer, and cherished member of our community – exemplifying our One Seattle vision for an equitable, thriving, and innovative city for all.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BRUCE A. HARRELL, MAYOR OF SEATTLE, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM AUGUST 9, 2025 TO BE
Ichiro Suzuki Day