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MLB rumors: Phillies have talked with Ichiro Suzuki

The Philadelphia Phillies have had communication with 39-year-old free agent outfielder Ichiro Suzuki.

Tom Szczerbowski-US PRESSWIRE

The Philadelphia Phillies have spoken with free agent outfielder Ichiro Suzuki, according to a report from CSN Philly's Jim Salisbury. The report states that it's unclear whether the Phillies have genuine interest in Suzuki, or whether the 39-year-old's camp initiated the discussions.

Adding outfield help is an offseason priority for Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr., who just missed out on prized centerfielder B.J. Upton. While landing a centerfielder is the top priority, the Phillies are also looking for corner outfielders, which could explain the talks with Suzuki.

Suzuki hit .283/.307/.390 with nine home runs, 55 RBI and 29 stolen bases in 162 games last season between the Seattle Mariners and New York Yankees. The Yankees acquired a struggling Suzuki from the Mariners on July 23 in exchange for a couple of pitching prospects. Suzuki performed much better in New York, posting a line of .322/.340/.454 in 67 games. In nine postseason games, he hit .275 with one home run and five RBI.