SEATTLE — A night that nobody in Seattle will ever forget somehow became even more memorable.

Ichiro’s iconic #51 was unveiled to hang forever in center field alongside Ken Griffey Jr., Edgar Martinez, and Jackie Robinson.

PHOTOS: Ichiro enshrined as Mariners legend as team retires #51 in pregame ceremony

During the festivities, Mariners Chairman John Stanton made a major announcement.

The Mariners are building a statue for Ichiro that will be unveiled next year. Just like the number of Mariners who have their jerseys retired, Ichiro’s will become the third player with a statue outside T-Mobile Park and fourth overall, including legendary announcer Dave Niehaus.

And of course, it will feature Ichiro’s iconic batting pose.

“In 2026, we will honor the most prolific hitter our game has ever seen,” said Stanton. “The man who holds the all-time record for hits in a season; the man who has more global hits than any other player in the history of baseball.”

“Next year, to celebrate his transcendent international role in baseball and his leadership of the Seattle Mariners, we will build a statue of Ichiro Suzuki,” added Stanton.

The statue unveiling date is still to be determined, but it will join another special ceremony next year when Randy Johnson’s jersey—also #51—will be retired by the M’s.

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Ichiro still maintains a daily presence with the Mariners. His official title is Special Assistant to the Chairman, and he’s seen working out on the field before every home game and giving advice to the current Mariners team.

On that note, Ichiro ended his jersey retirement speech with a special message for the 2025 team.

“Although I can no longer help you with a hit or laser beam throw, my will and desire is always there for you,” Ichiro told the current Mariners squad. “I come to the field every day because I want to help you be prepared for the moment. I am confident you can seize the moment.”

What else would you expect from Ichiro? A Mariners legend in every way. In the team Hall of Fame, the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and now with his jersey retired.

And on deck? An iconic statue to greet fans at T-Mobile Park for generations to come.