Ichiro Suzuki, known for his remarkable baseball career, spent a portion of his later years with the Miami Marlins, a time marked by both personal achievement and team challenges. During his Hall of Fame induction speech, Suzuki humorously recounted his initial unfamiliarity with the Marlins when they offered him a contract for the 2015 season. He stated, 'Honestly, when you guys called to offer me a contract for 2015, I had never heard of your team.' This moment highlights the unique journey Suzuki undertook, which followed a three-season spell with the New York Yankees.

Although Suzuki joined the Marlins past his prime, he managed to deliver notable performances, which is particularly impressive given his age—he was in his 40s during his time in Miami. His initial reservations about signing with the Marlins soon transformed into an enjoyable tenure, as he remained with the team for three seasons. However, the Marlins did not achieve postseason success during these years, missing the playoffs each season he was on the roster.

Suzuki, alongside renowned players CC Sabathia, Dick Allen, Billy Wagner, and Dave Parker, was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. In a near-unanimous vote, Suzuki fell just one vote short of achieving this distinction, leading him to lightheartedly engage with the one writer who omitted him from their ballot. 'Three thousand hits or 262 hits in one season are achievements recognized by the writers. Well, all but one of you,' he noted during his speech, adding humor by stating, 'By the way, the offer for that writer to have dinner at my home has now expired.' A celebrated 10-time All-Star, two-time AL batting champion, AL Rookie of the Year, and AL MVP, Suzuki is also remembered for setting the single-season hits record with a total of 262 in 2004.