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Despite being 41 years old and yet to pitch in an official MLB game, Ichiro unleashed a fastball clocked at 86 mph—no gimmick, he was not just a position player playing dress-up. His performance unfolded in hilarious and entertaining fashion, missing his catcher on a pitch and allowing a double to right field. However, he quickly showcased his versatility and determination, following up the initial hiccup with a series of impressive 87 mph fastballs, proving he could hold his own against major league batters.
The Rollercoaster of Innings
What ensued was a rollercoaster of emotion. While Ichiro faced challenges, allowing runs and notching his pitches against able hitters, he also delivered some notable moments, such as striking out Freddy Galvis with a beautifully executed curveball.