With the Mariners and A's now in Japan, all eyes (and cameras) are on Ichiro
The A's and Mariners have arrived in Japan, ahead of the Opening Series at the Tokyo Dome next week. The two-game set will mark the start of the 2019 MLB regular season, the second time the two AL West clubs have matched up for a Japan series since 2012.
This, of course, means one thing that is of supreme notoriety in the region: Ichiro is back in Japan. Suzuki is expected to suit up and play for the Mariners in their Opening Day lineup next week, which will obviously be a big deal.
Also a big deal? When he, Yusei Kikuchi and manager Scott Servais showed up for a press conference upon arriving in Tokyo.
The center of attention. #MLB開幕戦 pic.twitter.com/sL6W9VwO1O
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 16, 2019
The media attention was intense.
Think these guys are big here? #MLB開幕戦 pic.twitter.com/AeAG2wEoli
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 16, 2019
The A's, meanwhile, touched down after a 12-hour flight and hit the tarmac like movie stars.
How do you pass the time on a 12-hour international flight? Well, reliever Ryan Buchter took a microphone around the team's private jet and ... this happened.
Here's Rickey Henderson strolling through the airport ahead of his involvement in the Opening Series Ceremonial First Pitch, which looks like it'll be pretty great.
On Saturday, the clubs hit the Tokyo Dome for some practice, drills and just taking it all in.
We postin’ about practice.
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 16, 2019
First workout from Japan is underway at the Tokyo Dome. pic.twitter.com/4oBN3xxt8N
— Seattle Mariners (@Mariners) March 16, 2019
There's Ichiro, putting on a show as always.
Matt Chapman looked in mid-season form defensively over at the hot corner:
As did reigning American League home run leader Khris Davis, as he crushed (_khrushed_) baseballs all over the Dome.
Be sure to tune in on Wednesday, March 21 when Kikuchi and the Mariners begin the 2019 season against Mike Fiers and the A's.