Ichiro Suzuki (2001-2012)
Ichiro was a major star in Japan before heading to the Seattle Mariners as the first Japanese position player in major league history. Although there were questions as to whether or not he would be the same caliber of player stateside, he answered the doubters quickly.
He hit the ground running and never stopped. In his first season with the Mariners, Ichiro led the league with 242 hits, a .350 batting average, and 56 steals. He won the American League MVP and Rookie of the Year awards, the first player to do so since Fred Lynn in 1975. Three years later, in 2004, he broke the single season hit record, set by George Sisler in 1920.
Along the way, Ichiro proved to be a major star, paving the way for other Japanese position players to come to MLB. He was a ten time All Star, and won three Silver Slugger awards. Ichiro won two batting titles, and stole 30 or more steals in ten of his 12 seasons with the Mariners. He also proved to be a brilliant defensive right fielder, winning ten Gold Gloves to start his career.
Overall, Ichiro produced a stellar .322/.366/.418 batting line for the Mariners, collecting 2533 hits. He showed some pop, hitting 295 doubles, although his impressive speed was more of a calling card. Ichiro stole 438 bases with Seattle, and hit 79 triples. He had quite the batting eye as well, with only 792 strikeouts in 8483 plate appearances.
The greatest Japanese player to come over to MLB, Ichiro Suzuki has made a lasting impact upon the game. The all time professional hits leader, Ichiro was a great all around player.