MLB Power Rankings: Cubbies Streaking, Nats Drop

Aug 15, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; Miami Marlins left fielder

(51) bats against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Let’s take a moment of appreciation for one of the greatest hitters in the history of baseball. On Saturday, a first-inning single gave the legendary Ichiro Suzuki 4,192 hits through his years in Japan and in MLB and that passes the historic mark set by Ty Cobb.

1,278 hits in Japan. 2,914 hits in Major League Baseball. A legend.

It’s always going to be hard to compare accomplishments from completely different ages of baseball. But I think we can agree that Ichiro’s accomplishment is at the same level if not higher than Ty Cobb’s. In the time of Cobb, pitching was completely different from what it is now. Due to segregation and the smaller amount of teams, there’s no question the league was weaker than it is today. Mounds were lower, hitting was higher and easier if I dare say so. Even with all his years in Japan, the talent level is significantly higher in baseball today that it was in the early 1900’s during Cobb’s time. Looking towards the history books and Cooperstown, Ichiro’s legacy should go down as one of the greatest pure hitters to ever grace this game.

So let’s take a moment to remember Ichiro’s greatness. Remember when he had 200 hits for ten straight years? Remember the absolute terror he brought when he got on base. Remember when he broke into the league and he was like nothing we had seen before and ran away with the Rookie of the Year Award? Remember this insanity?

I was six years old and I sure do and it will stick with me for the rest of my life. Here’s to you Ichiro.

Biggest Jump: Brewers (3 spots)

Biggest Drop: Rockies, Phillies (3 spots)

Here’s this week’s version of MLB Power Rankings

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