Hanshin Tigers Autograph card with player's signature
Date1980s
MediumHeavy cardstock
Dimensions10 3/4 x 9 1/2 in. (27.3 x 24.1 cm)
ClassificationsDocumentary Artifact
Catalog number2012.10.29
DescriptionWhite, gold bordered Hanshin Tigers autograph and with Tiger head in an orange circle design at top and orange text "HANSHIN TIGERS." Autographs on the back.Update on the identity of the player to whom this autograph is attributed. This is the signature of Masayuki Kakefu, a longtime third baseman for the Hanshin Tigers. One of the few players honored with the nickname "Mr. Tigers," Kakefu played 15 seasons for the Tigers (from 1974 to 1988). During those years he hit 349 homeruns and earned six Diamond Glove Awards for his excellent defensive play at third base (this honor is now known as the Gold Glove Award). In 2025, Kakefu was inducted into the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame.
(Information on Masayuki Kakefu's identity courtesy of Justin Hartrick, September 2025.)
Status
Not on view
