SEATTLE - The baseball world is still abuzz with the news of Ichiro's near-unanimous election into the Baseball Hall of Fame, with all but one voter including the legendary outfielder on their ballot. While it's likely that the identity of the lone voter who snubbed Ichiro will remain a mystery, the Japanese superstar has responded to the slight in hilarious fashion.
According to sources close to the situation, Ichiro was informed of the vote shortly after the results were announced, and his response was typically lighthearted and humorous. When asked about the vote, Ichiro reportedly joked that he was 'disappointed, but not surprised' that one voter had left him off their ballot.
Ichiro's response has sent shockwaves through the baseball community, with many of his former teammates and opponents coming to his defense. 'Ichiro is a once-in-a-lifetime talent, and his numbers speak for themselves,' said one former teammate. 'For anyone to leave him off their ballot is just ridiculous.'
Despite the near-unanimous support for his Hall of Fame candidacy, Ichiro's response to the lone voter who snubbed him has stolen the headlines. With his characteristic humor and humility, Ichiro has proven once again why he is one of the most beloved figures in baseball.
The voter who snubbed Ichiro has yet to come forward and explain their decision, but it's clear that they will face intense scrutiny from the baseball community. As for Ichiro, he will be formally inducted into the Hall of Fame later this year, where he will take his rightful place alongside the game's all-time greats.