Ichiro Suzuki Leads Historic 2025 Baseball Hall of Fame Class

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JAN 22

Above: Former Seattle Mariners player Ichiro Suzuki reacts as he is elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, after receiving the results on Jan. 21, 2025, at T-Mobile Park in Seattle, Washington. Image copyright: Steph Chambers/Staff/Getty Images Sport via Getty Imagesstory last updated JAN 23

The Facts

Ichiro Suzuki became the first Japanese player elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on Tuesday, receiving 99.7% of votes, just one vote shy of unanimous selection. He had a career .311 batting average, 117 home runs, and 3,089 hits (4,376 including his Japanese career).
Also on Tuesday, the Mariners announced that they would retire Ichiro's number 51 on Aug. 9, making him just the third player in franchise history to receive this honor, joining Ken Griffey Jr. and Edgar Martínez.
CC Sabathia earned induction with 86.8% of votes in his first year of eligibility, becoming one of only five first-ballot left-handed starting pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) Hall of Fame history, finishing his career with 251 wins and over 3K strikeouts.

The Spin

Narrative A

This year’s Hall of Fame class perfectly embodies the diversity and greatness of the sport. Ichiro Suzuki, the first Asian player elected, dazzled with 3K hits and unmatched consistency. CC Sabathia, a 6'6", 300-pound force, ranks with legends like Carlton and Johnson. Billy Wagner overcame adversity to become the toughest pitcher to hit. Their unique paths highlight baseball's inclusivity and rich history.

Narrative B

The Hall of Fame has overlooked several deserving players, especially those linked to steroids like A-Rod and Bonds. The steroid era was widespread, with many in baseball benefiting, suggesting a level playing field. Excluding these players ignores their undeniable talent and contributions to the game, perpetuating an era of hypocrisy in baseball's hallowed halls.

Inquirer