What it means: That the Yankees have acquired one of the best pure hitters of our generation for two pitching prospects.

What it looks like: A steal for Brian Cashman, although the last trade he made with Seattle -- Jesus Montero for Michael Pineda didn't work out quite as expected.

Where will he play?: Although Joe Girardi said he planned to use Ichiro in left field, a position he has never played a regular-season game before, he is playing right field tonight.

So what does that mean?: It means the power-hitting LF platoon of Raul Ibanez and Andruw Jones now becomes a power-hitting DH platoon. And Nick Swisher is safe in right field. For now.

Where will he bat?: It won't be leadoff. Girardi said he wanted to discuss it with Ichiro before announcing it, which presumably he did, before penciling him into the No 8 hole tonight.

What number will he wear?: It won't be 51. Without mentioning the name of Bernie Williams, Ichiro said he knew how much the number meant to the Yankees and would ask for something else.

When do we get answers?: Soon. The Yankees clubhouse is open, the lineup should be posted shortly, and the game starts at 10:10. Stay tuned.