Seattle Mariners outfielder Suzuki Ichiro (30) has become the new record holder for hits in a single season. He got singles in his first two at-bats against the Texas Rangers this morning (Tokyo time) to take him to 258, bettering the record set by George Sisler in 1920. After acknowledging the standing ovation from the capacity crowd at Safeco Field, he went to shake hands with the Sisler’s daughter and grandsons, who were in the front row.
• Meanwhile at home, last night the Chunichi Dragons won their first Central League pennant in five years. They will meet the winner of the Pacific League playoffs in the Japan Series.