Ichiro hit his first professional homer off Hideo Nomo back in 1993. Little did anyone know both players would one day take the Major League by storm. The Mariners took a chance on this baseball phenom, and the speedy, smart, clutch hitting, gold glove outfielder has since become one of the best players in baseball of his generation along with Vladimir Guerrero, Albert Pujols, Alex Rodriguez, etc. Ichiro broke Shoeless Joe Jackson's record for most hits by a rookie with 242 in 2001, and he also broke most hits in a season in 2004, a record held by George Sisler for 84 years with 262. Pictured here is his card from the 2003 Leaf Slick Leather set, dedicated to his excellent defense ability. Ichiro has won numerous Gold Gloves during his career, both in Japan, and the Major League.