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  Fukumoto - Outfielder (Hankyu)

World Stolen Base King,  Fukumoto

A triple threat with offense, speed, and defense; Fukumoto is unparalleled as a leadoff hitter. Above all, his running can be called the best in Japan—no, the best in the world. Fukumoto stole 106 bases last year, which broke the Big League mark and established a new world record.  Actually, this now puts him in a bit of a spot. Every time Fukumoto gets on base he hears the voices from the stands: “Run!” Fukumoto, the running man.

When Rickey Henderson eventually topped Fukumoto for the stolen base world record he gifted Fukumoto the base, which can now be seen at the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame in Tokyo. Henderson and Fukumoto remain the only two members of the 1,000 SB Club. (I can’t imagine how this card lost its corner so cleanly, but given its rarity I had to pick it up regardless of the condition).

#88  Nagaike - Outfielder (Hankyu)

Hankyu’s Batting King,  Nagaike

Nothing makes you think “he’ll get a hit” quite like Nagaike’s batting stance—glaring at the pitcher in that particular way with his chin on his shoulder. With that 175cm, 82kg frame he swings the bat, smashing the ball for a line drive that disappears into the outfield stands. Impressive, isn’t it. This year, he is currently on top in the home run chase.

Atsushi Nagaike was a formidable slugger who played his entire career with the Hankyu Braves. From 1969 to ‘73 he hit at least 40 homers in four out of those five years. In three (‘69, ‘72 and ‘73) he was the home run leader.

#89  Yamada - Pitcher (Hankyu)

Sidearm Pitcher,  Yamada

Hankyu’s new ace Yamada differs from veterans Yoneda and Adachi. You might think the ball will rise but it breaks—a slider that paints the zone. Just one of Yamada’s many varied offerings.  Without a doubt, he’s a miracle pitcher. You’ll remember that exquisite pitching well from his time facing the Giants in the Japan Series.

The Braves lost to the Giants 4-1 in the 1972 Japan Series that this card references. It would only take a few years for the club to exact its revenge, turning the tables on Yomiuri 4-3 in the ‘76 Series. For good measure, they beat the Giants again 4-1 in ‘77 , with Yamada taking home Series MVP.

#90  Kato - First Baseman (Hankyu)

Full of Fighting Spirit,  Kato

First basemen hitting third will inevitably be compared to the Giants’ Oh, but if you set aside home runs, Kato is every bit a match for him. It’s said his defense may be even better than Oh’s. His knack for getting it on the the sweet spot of the bat is exceptional, and with the sharpest batting skills on the team along with his natural intuition, he’s belting them everywhere this year too.