The greatest hitter of his generation, Kawakami, after a poor rookie season, rebounded in 1939 at age 19 to win the batting and RBI titles. Using his famed red bat, Kawakami would hit at least .300 in 13 of the next 15 seasons. In 1950, Kawakami met Joe DiMaggio during the Yankee Clipper's visit to Japan. DiMaggio convinced Kawakami to concentrate more on line drives than home runs. Kawakami took DiMaggio's advice, and the next season he batted .377, striking out only six times in 422 plate appearances.
This card was originally a first prize premium on a display sheet associated with an unknown bromide set. The bearer of a regular bromide card from the set with a first prize winner notation printed on the back by the manufacturer was entitled to select this card. Blank backed.
Size: Approximately 7" x 10"
Condition: Ex to Ex/Mt but with water staining on the blank back.