MLB Home Run Derby: Underrated options with loads of potential
By Kyle Cardoza
MLB Home Run Derby: Ichiro Suzuki
Give the fans what they want.
Since Ohtani will not return in time, which is a disappointment. The two-way player had six home runs before suffering an injury to his UCL. Hopefully, he will return soon.
In the meantime, a joke involving Ichiro Suzuki has arguably become a top headline in the news. Mariners manager Scott Servais told reports the seemingly-retired veteran should be in the contest.
Though Ichiro didn’t necessarily decline, the odds aren’t noteworthy. Nevertheless, that would be a story of its own, especially considering that he smacked 117 career home runs.
But the Hall of Fame outfielder already had one of the shining moments of the season. Moreover, the guy still takes batting practice on a daily basis, so he’s not technically out of practice.
However, Ichiro’s addition wouldn’t be to create more fireworks. It would clearly be a feel-good story. Yet, he could be allowed to hit somewhere in the infield to ensure he can compete with the rest of the crew.
Even more remarkable is that he’s never homered in Nationals Park. Any balls struck past the fence would arguably the first and last bombs in that stadium for his lengthy career.
This season seemed to be centered on Ohtani – at least throughout the first two months. But for one more night, the MLB could put Ichiro in the spotlight, even if he is eliminated in the first round.
That would get fans to their feet while providing an enormous round of applause.