This is a public service announcement. Ichiro Suzuki must compete in this year's Home Run Derby. He was asked last year, but declined due to his hamstring. This year, the geniuses of Major League Baseball decided to stick Ichiro's name on the All-Star ballot under the Home Run Derby section.

Although a fan's vote in this section will have no impact on the actual choosing of Home Run Derby participants, it will give the authorities a strong sign of who fans want to see compete in the Derby. We all know Ichiro can hit home runs when he tries.

It is a popular legend that Ichiro can put on a show during batting practice. Wouldn't it be great to see Ichiro take on big buff clean-up hitters in the competition? Besides wanting to see Ichiro pitch, this is probably the one thing I am dying to see happen.

So Ichiro, I humbly request that you say "yes" when asked to compete in the Home Run Derby this year. You deserve to have some fun after a successful first half of the season.

Please leave a comment on this post if you are in agreement with me.

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