San Francisco Giants: Revisiting Ichiro’s All-Star inside-the-park homer
The San Francisco Giants hosted the 2007 All-Star Game and Ichiro made history by hitting the first inside-the-park home run in the game’s history.
Ichiro Suzuki closed his brilliant professional baseball career with the perfect ending. He walked off the field for the last time after a two-game series in Japan as a member of the Seattle Mariners, the team he played 13 of his 18 MLB years with.
I could write 1,000 words on his accomplishments–both in Japan and the United States–and it still wouldn’t do his illustrious career justice. Simply put, Ichiro is an icon. One of the greatest hitters of all-time, he is a pioneer that has inspired generations of fans across the world, starting from the first time he stepped onto a pro field in 1992.
From his distinctive swing to his web gems, his highlight reel is lengthy and impressive. Whether it’s a record-breaking hit or a wall-climbing home run robbery, everyone has a different favorite Ichiro moment.
In 2007, Ichiro made history as the first and only player to hit an inside-the-park home run at the All-Star Game at the then called AT&T Park. It was a thrilling play that showcased the field’s beautiful eccentricity and Ichiro’s knack for the spectacular.
San Diego Padres pitcher Chris Young missed his location and Ichiro made him pay. He hit it to deep right-center and then AT&T Park showed everyone why it is such a unique and challenging place to play. It hit off the brick and not even the amazing Ken Griffey Jr. could play it correctly. The ball bounced away from him and Ichiro knocked in Baltimore Orioles second baseman Brian Roberts and his speed completed the first ever inside-the-park homer in the Midsummer Classic.
Next. Giants CEO Baer should be held accountable. dark
The game of baseball is worse off without Ichiro playing it, but it is certainly better because of his impact. He’s a future Hall of Famer that brought joy to millions with his talent, energy, and love of the game.
This is just one of the countless highlights and moments that made his career special, but it was a great one.