Sometimes you come across athlete names that make you ponder how the individual with that name was destined to compete at a remarkable level. I always think of former Formula 1 and NASCAR driver Scott Speed. I mean, come on, “Speed?” The only more fitting name for a racecar driver would be Scott Drivescargood. Well, we’ve got the latest addition to this list of names, and it belongs to a Cincinnati Reds prospect hailing from Mexico. His name? Ichiro Cano. Let the lofty expectations commence! That’s one of the most exceptional names in the history of the sport. We’re talking about a sport that has witnessed names like Rollie Fingers, Johnny “Ugly” Dickshot, and the always crowd-pleasing Rusty Kuntz. Alright, perhaps it’s not superior to any of those, but it’s still impressive…
Ichiro Cano is the moniker that the 18-year-old third baseman and shortstop goes by, although his full name is Ichiro Cano Hernandez. He graduated from Academia Beisbol Alfredo Harp, a renowned baseball academy in Mexico that has produced numerous Major Leaguers. This is one of those instances where pursuing a career in baseball was the only option. Once Ichiro’s parents chose those names, pursuing any other profession was completely off the table, unless you want to endure constant questioning and retain your sanity. Just imagine if he decided to become an insurance salesman. Good luck trying to close a deal, as clients would be more interested in discussing his name than the actual product. It would be a never-ending cycle of inquiries. “Wait… is your name REALLY Ichiro Cano? Seriously?” This scenario would occur incessantly. While making it as a professional ballplayer won’t be a walk in the park, especially if he struggles on the field, sharing names with some of the greatest players of all time might provide some consolation. Only time will tell how Ichiro Cano’s career unfolds. Who knows? Perhaps he’ll rise to stardom, becoming a potential Hall of Famer, and both Ichiro Suzuki and Robinson Cano will be honored to share names with him. While I wouldn’t hold my breath for that, I would never dismiss the possibility.