Ichiro Suzuki has officially joined the MLB Hall of Fame, and it’s fair to say he made quite an entrance with his induction speech. The 51-year-old spoke about his achievements, those who have been there for him, and took a hilarious jab at the Miami Marlins.

Doubts and Support

Ichiro took some time to speak about how there were plenty of doubts surrounding his move from Japan to MLB. However, there was always one person in his corner – his wife, Yumiko.

Speaking openly, Ichiro noted, “There were a lot of doubts when I wanted to become the first fielder to go from Japan to Major League Baseball, as you guessed. No, beyond doubt, countless criticisms and negativity have been raised”.

He continued, “But it was my wife Yumiko who supported me the most, he said. "My wife also had such doubts, but she didn't make it obvious that I was aware of them. She used all her energy to cheer me up and give me courage. For 19 years in Seattle, New York, and Maiaki, she was convinced that our family was always happy and harmonious. She was the best and most unwavering colleague of my life”. 

Marlins Joke

The ten-time All-Star is mainly known for his time with the Seattle Mariners, but he also spent time with the New York Yankees and the Miami Marlins during his time in MLB.

The latter of these found themselves on the end of a joke, with Ichiro suggesting, “And to the Miami Marlins - Honestly, when you guys called to offer me a contract for 2015, I had never heard of your Team”.