Seattle Mariners make Ichiro Suzuki acting bench coach
A familiar face is returning to the Seattle Mariners bench, albeit in a different role than he may be accustomed to.
When last we saw Ichiro Suzuki in the Seattle Mariners dugout, he was struggling to perform at the level we had all become accustomed to seeing. In his return to where his major league career began, the 44 year old had posted an uncharacteristic .205/.255/.205 batting line in his 47 plate appearances. While he had not officially retired, it seemed that the end had come.
However, that did not mean that Ichiro would not suit up once more. He had left open the possibility of making his farewell in Japan next year, when the Mariners begin the 2019 campaign in his home country. As it turns out, he has returned to the dugout sooner than expected, putting the uniform on once again while serving as the Mariners interim bench coach.
This move comes about due to manager Scott Servais leaving the team for a couple of days to attend his daughter’s graduation. In his stead, current bench coach Manny Acta is assuming the managerial reigns. With that open spot, the Mariners legend is getting a chance to return to the dugout.
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As far as what Ichiro’s duties will be, he is not certain. Regardless of what is expected of him in the dugout, he has professed his excitement about the role, and the ability to watch games from the field level once again. Due to rules governing how many staff members can be on the bench during the game, he had been watching games on television while hitting off a tee in a room behind the dugout during games to keep his swing in line.
The temporary bench coach has been a presence on the field before games. Although he is officially a special assistant to the Mariners’ chairman, he has been participating in drills and training on the field prior to games. Although he will not be returning to action this season according to the Mariners, the legendary outfielder is doing his best to remain in shape for his hoped for return to action come next season.
If nothing else, it is good to see Ichiro back on the bench, albeit in a coaching role. This may well be a chance for the future Hall of Famer to learn the ropes as a coach as well, helping to set up his future once his playing days officially end. This way, Ichiro can stay close to the game that he loves, and can continue his routine day in and day out.
Next: Ichiro's rank amongst Mariners greats
Seattle Mariners legend ichiro Suzuki has returned to the dugout. This time, he will be assuming the role of the Mariners bench coach.