As the Seattle Mariners standout outfielder, Ichiro Suzuki, beings – what could be – his final season in the Emerald City, he might not be hitting in the leadoff spot.
Somewhere he has been for the past decade.
Seattle manager Eric Wedge told reporters Thursday that Suzuki might be moved to help the struggling Mariner offense.
“It’s as much to do with his teammates as it has to do with him,” Wedge said. “(Especially) With regard to the collective nine that we’re putting down on paper.”
It’s a tough spot for Wedge. Suzuki is coming off his worst statistical season at the dish, but the 10-time All-Star does have quite the batting resume to keep him not only in the line up, but at the top.
Then again, Suzuki turns 38 this October and last season was the first time in his career he didn’t get to 200 hits – falling short by 16.
Some would say he is well past his prime and even past the sunset of his career.
If Wedge makes the change, look for Dustin Ackley, Franklin Gutierrez or Chone Figgins to replace Suzuki.
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