TOKYO: Ichiro Suzuki feels a renewed sense of passion after finally signing a two-year contract to stay at the New York Yankees, the Japanese outfielder said yesterday.
The 39-year-old, a career .322 hitter with 2,606 hits in 12 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), called the storied ‘Bronx Bombers’ a unique ballclub.
“Re-signing for the Yankees has awakened a fresh determination in me,” the 10-times All Star told Japanese media after a workout in Kobe.
“This is a team that can select A-Rod as a pinch-hitter we’re talking about,” he added, referring to fellow future Hall of Famer Alex Rodriguez.
Ichiro’s future with the Yankees had hung in the balance, the player unhappy that talks on a new deal were taking so long and threatening to negotiate with other clubs.
However, after agreeing terms on a deal worth $13m over two years, Ichiro is expected to be the team’s starting right fielder this season.
“It is an absolutely unique team,” said Ichiro, who reportedly turned down more money from other MLB teams to remain in the Yankees pinstripes.
“Being able to take my place alongside such players has been something I have thinking about,” he said. REUTERS
