Takehiko Bessho was Japan's premier pitcher during the late 1940s and early 1950s. He twice won 30 or more games in a season, baffling hitters with a variety of off speed deliveries. During his career, he won two MVP awards and two Sawamura (Japanese Cy Young) Awards. His 310 victories combined with a lifetime ERA of only 2.18 puts him in the company of the world's greatest all time pitchers.

This photo, taken in 1949, shows Bessho wearing his Yomiuri Giants uniform. 1949 was the only year in which he wore #29. The autograph is contemporary to the photo. Signed in blue violet ink.

Size: 2 13/16" x 4 5/16"

Condition: Autograph--7 out of 10 (minor ink smear on second character from bottom). Photo--Vg/Ex with a very sharp image.