Seattle Mariners bring Hisashi Iwakuma back in coaching role

After spending six seasons with the Seattle Mariners, Hisashi Iwakuma is back in the Pacific Northwest as he will take on a coaching role.

The Seattle Mariners have had a strong presence in Japan. Beginning with their signing of Ichiro Suzuki, the Mariners have been a team that has been a destination for players from Nippon Professional Baseball. The Mariners have had a great deal of success with that relationship as well, landing plenty of key pieces for their roster over the years.

One of those players is set to return, albeit in a coaching role. Hisashi Iwakuma is back with the Mariners as a special assignment coach.

Iwakuma will have a variety of roles in his position. He will be working with pitchers and pitching instructors at both the major league and minor league level, visiting each affiliate over the course of the season. He will also work with Mariners scout Manabu Noto in Japan.

Iwakuma was another successful acquisition from Japan for the Mariners. While he struggled with injuries in his final season, he still had an impressive career. He posted a 63-39 record with a 3.42 ERA and a 1.143 WHiP, striking out 714 batters with 185 walks in his 883.2 innings. He made the 2013 All Star Game and threw a no hitter on August 12, 2015.

Given his success, Iwakuma should have plenty to offer the Mariners prospects. He was a master of command during his career, both in the majors and in Japan. Iwakuma has plenty of respect, both in the Mariners organization and in his home country.

By having Iwakuma as part of their scouting efforts, the Mariners may be able to remain at the forefront when it comes to landing top talent from Japan. Having such a respected player as part of their scouting and signing players can only help those efforts.

The union between the Seattle Mariners and Hisashi Iwakuma worked out well for both sides during his playing days. The duo may find success again in their latest partnership.