This is the fourth different card from this set that we have ever seen, but is the first example of Takehiko Bessho. This issue is distinctive in that a horizontal strip containing the player's surname, team, uniform number and previous school attended is printed at the bottom of an otherwise sharp pure card type photo.

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. He won 310 games and had a lifetime ERA of only 2.18. He is seen here in his final season as a member of the Nankai Hawks. He joined the Yomiuri Giants the following year. Blank backed.

Size: Approximately 3 3/8" x 5 3/8"

Condition: Would be Vg/Ex except for two minor pin holes.