Free agent outfielder Ichiro Suzuki stunned Seattle Mariners fan Amy Franz with a gift on Tuesday, when the creator of the "Ichimeter" received a thank you card along with a package containing autographed spikes and a bat.
Franz created the sign board to mark Suzuki's progress toward George Sisler's single-season hit record in 2004, when she and the Ichimeter became a fixture in the right-field stands at Seattle's Safeco Field. The original Ichimeter is now in the hall of fame.
After Suzuki was traded to the New York Yankees in July, the former Mariners star autographed Franz's latest version of the device when he returned with his new club.
Franz said that upon receiving the package she almost "passed out in the middle of the living room."
The note read: "Thank you for your loyal support during my career in Seattle. Your unique and faithful way of cheering was a constant inspiration to me. Although the color of my spikes have now changed, I would appreciate your keeping a pair from my Mariners' years."