1980 Calbee Large: A Scarce and Intriguing Set (#11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)

On then with my survey of 1980 Calbee Large. You can see the first post containing general information about the set here. A reminder that I am not translating card backs that contain only routine stats. Barely any Block 1 (#1-49) cards contain player write-ups, so we’ll be relying on my own slapdash commentary a lot here.

#11  Yujiro Miyako - Pitcher (Chunichi)

Miyako was a solid pitcher for the Dragons over a decade, albeit one who missed a lot of time. His best season was 1982, when he posted a 3.13 ERA with 141 strikeouts in 221.1 innings pitched. He was the leader in win percentage that year with .762. (16-5).

 

#12  Keishi Suzuki - Pitcher (Kintetsu)

Hall of Famer Suzuki had a monster career but does hold the dubious distinction of being NPB’s all-time leader in home runs given up. This card holds the dubious distinction of indicating incorrect pronunciation of his name. Although the kanji of Suzuki’s given name would generally be read Keiji—and the phonetic characters on the card indicate this—his name is in fact, Keishi.

 

#13  Koichi Tabuchi - Catcher (Seibu)

Despite being one of four Tigers players ever honored with the ‘Mr. Tigers’ nickname, Tabuchi did not spend his entire career at Koshien. In a highly unconventional move for a player of his ability and standing, he was traded to the Seibu Lions before the 1979 season. Playing out the last six years of his career in Saitama, he managed to pick up two Japan Series titles (‘82, ‘83).

 

#14  Yasunori Oshima - Infielder (Chunichi)

Oshima put together a very long (24 years!) and productive career. His best season was 1979 when he led the league in hits (159) and doubles (33) along with a .317 average, .978 OPS, and 36 HR. Although not a Hall of Famer he is a member of the Meikyukai honor roll by virtue of his 2,000+ hits.

 

#15  Kiyoshi Nakahata - Infielder (Yomiuri)

Nakahata earned 7 golden gloves over his career with the Giants as a third baseman. He led the league in triples in 1981.

 

#16  Hirohisa Matsunuma - Pitcher (Seibu)

Matsunuma was Rookie of the Year in 1979. He racked up 6 Japan Series titles as a memeber of Seibu's 80’s dynasty.

 

#17  Hiromu Matsuoka - Pitcher (Yakult)

Matsuoka was an effective workhorse for many years. He earned an ERA title the season this card went to print.