Ichiro Suzuki returns to the field as an outfielder to participate in the Seattle Mariners' postseason warm-up game.

The applause during the player introductions reverberated throughout the arena, reaching volumes comparable to or even exceeding regular season games. Yet, this was merely a group exhibition match with around 5,000 spectators present, giving off a vibe similar to spring training.

That wave of enthusiasm? It’s known as the “Ichiro Effect.”

Mariners legend Ichiro Suzuki, inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2025, took part in today’s simulated game as part of Seattle’s preparation ahead of the AL Division Series. He played for the “home team” in a six-inning game at T-Mobile Park, staying on the field the entire time.

This day also marked the 21st anniversary of the day he broke the single-season hits record. Ichiro wore the Mariners’ full white uniform and sported specially customized fluorescent cleats, shining brightly under the open roof in the autumn sun. However, he did not bat, as this was prearranged to leave opportunities for players who truly needed adjustments before Sunday’s ALDS opener (against the winner of the Guardians vs. Tigers matchup).

Fans who entered with a $10 ticket—proceeds benefiting the Mariners Care Foundation—definitely got their money’s worth. In the third inning, Ichiro caught a fly ball from Mitch Garver, then crossed his hands to mimic Julio Rodríguez’s “No Fly Zone” gesture.

This gesture was the centerpiece of a promotional video the Mariners filmed before the 2024 season, symbolizing the legacy passed from Seattle’s past to its present stars.

In Wednesday’s group exhibition game, the Mariners deliberately placed Rodríguez and Ichiro on the same team, patrolling the outfield side by side. Their friendship dates back five years to when Rodríguez was a rookie phenom and has continued ever since.

But would Rodríguez call off Ichiro on a boundary fly ball? If there was a collision for the catch, would he show respect to the veteran?

“I’m the center fielder, and he knows that well,” Rodríguez said with a smile, prompting laughter from the crowd. “I think age doesn’t matter on the field, but I will definitely let him catch one.”

The most significant moments for Ichiro in 2025 were, of course, receiving the Hall of Fame induction notice in January and the official ceremony in Cooperstown in July. However, what truly stood out was his speech at the August celebration in Seattle, where his number 51 jersey was officially retired.

On that sunny, packed Sunday, Ichiro pointed toward the home dugout, urging the team to “seize the moment,” a motto that became central to the team’s postseason campaign. During today’s exhibition, this phrase was displayed on the big screen as the team prepared.

“I think because those words came from him, we really take them to heart,” Rodríguez said. “He went through it all. He was part of that legendary 2001 team, accumulated so much experience, and now he’s passing it on to us, telling us ‘now it’s your turn.’ That’s why many of us truly remember it—because it came from Ichiro.”

More broadly, Ichiro’s appearance today was once again his way of giving back to the team and offering as much support as possible.

“I’ve always tried to stay connected with them,” Ichiro said this summer through longtime translator Allen Turner. “I catch, run, hit, and field fly balls. I want to show them that even at my age, I can still play this game.”

Calling him a “coach” isn’t entirely accurate because he keeps enough distance to let players play their own way. Even if they don’t fully follow his old-school approach—his strict attention to detail and pursuit of perfection—Ichiro still shares his experience from 19 years in the Major Leagues and 9 years in Japanese professional baseball.

“I’m not here to tell them what to do or to share anything,” Ichiro Suzuki said. “I’m here to give everyone the chance to ask me whenever they want. If any player needs my help, I’ll be here. That’s why I’m here.”