Mariners GM not closing door on Ichiro returning to play in 2019

Ichiro Suzuki's playing career may be close to an end, but it's not officially over yet, according to Seattle Mariners general manager Jerry Dipoto.

After the Mariners announced Ichiro will transition into the role of special assistant to the chairman and not return to the active roster in 2018, Dipoto said he wouldn't rule out a return to the playing field for the veteran outfielder next season, reports MLB.com's Corey Brock.

Dipoto also explained Ichiro is not retiring yet, and the 44-year-old doesn't want to play for anyone other than the Mariners if he chooses to return to action.

"When I start using a cane, that's when I'll know I'm ready to retire," Ichiro told MLB.com's Greg Johns.

Before the Mariners announced Ichiro's transition Thursday, he apparently knew in advance that his game against the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday would be his last of the season, although he'll remain with the team for all road and home games, Dipoto said, according to TJ Cotterill of the Tacoma News Tribune. He was 0-for-3 with a walk and a run scored.

Ichiro returned to the Mariners after spending the past six seasons split between the New York Yankees and Miami Marlins. He was hitting just .205/.255/.205 with nine hits and three walks.