Collecting and Translating the 1973 Calbee Bat-Backs (Part 16)
The ‘ 73 bat-back set closes out with five players for the Hankyu Braves, the Pacific League club that would eventually morph into the Orix Blue Wave before becoming the current Orix Buffaloes. The Braves played at Nishinomiya Stadium in Hyogo, more or less up the street from the Tigers ’ hallowed Koshien Stadium. The club was fairly successful during its four decades under the Braves name, winning three consecutive Japanese Series from 1975-77, and ten pennants. #86 Emoto - Pitcher (Nankai) No. 1 Earned Run Average, Emoto When it comes to Nankai ’ s ace, there is no one you can think of but Emoto. From his dynamic form comes a barrage of heavy fastballs and sharp, cutting curves. Now in his third year since coming out of Hosei University, he has really hit his stride. During the first half he was 9-6 with a first place ERA (1.52). Of his 18 starts, 9 have been complete games and 5 have been shutouts. He ’ s really aced the test! Keep it up, Emoto! #87 ...