To me an iconic player is someone who embodies their sport. An icon is usually specific to a generation or a location. For example, Ichiro is undoubtedly an icon in Japan. I wouldn't say he's an icon in America though. The current American baseball icon as a whole (in my opinion) is Derek Jeter.
What makes them icons? I would say it is usually a mix of talent, opportunity, playing for the right team / at the right time, and exemplifying something more than just a baseball player. For Ichiro it would be because he is a pioneer. For Jeter it was that he demonstrated unparalleled class and endurance while playing the most high profile position for the most high profile team during the most high profile dynasty in sports at the time.
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