Following his career as the most influential American player in the history of Japanese baseball (1951-1962), Wally Yonamine, winner of three Central League batting championships, seven consecutive Best 9 awards and an MVP, was a manager and a coach in Japan Pro Baseball. In 1983 and 1984, he was a coach for the Seibu Lions. This game worn jersey dates from these two seasons.

Manufactured by Descente, the jersey and pants include all appropriate tags. Interestingly, the jersey has a label stating that it is part of the Lions' "A type uniform" for 1984. A label on the pants states that it is part of the Lions' "A type uniform" for 1983! It should be pointed out that the Lions wore the same A type jersey from 1980 to 1995, so it makes sense that a team member could be wearing a jersey produced in one year, and pants produced in another. Yonamine's uniform number 87 appears on the tags for both the jersey and pants. His name is prominently displayed on the back of the jersey.

Yonamine, who passed away in 2011, has inscribed the jersey, "Best Wishes, Wally Yonamine" in dark blue ink on the front near the bottom. We have never before seen a Wally Yonamine jersey or uniform dating from his playing days. Therefore, this autographed uniform may be as close as we'll ever get.

Size: Yonamine was about 5' 9", 185 lbs.

Condition: Game used with light wear