1935 Tokyo Giants Team
Here’s a little bit about the history of the team: Yomiuri (Tokyo) Giants Team History
1939 Baseball Hall Of Fame Dedication - 1st Day Cover
This illustration was created for the envelope of the first day postal cover celebrating the official dedication of the HOF on June 12, 1939. The artwork incorporates the Baseball Centennial logo that was used for the 1939 season (worn as a patch on every major league jersey, the minor leagues had a variation as well). What really caught my eye was the very bold Japanese-esque ‘Rising Sun’ theme. While its usage was innocent enough for 1939, it surely would have evoked quite a different reaction had it been created just a few years later after the events at Pearl Harbor.
1931 U.S. Tour Of Japan Team Group Panoramic
Tokyo, Japan - November 1931
The American team is intermingled with the Keio University players, most recognizable is Lou Gehrig (2nd from left) who’s not wearing a baseball uniform, but a formal suit & tie.
The Asahi Sports Magazine - May 15, 1928
The Japanese Twice-a-Month Illustrated Record of Athletics
Babe Ruth (in a not-so-glamorous pose) on the cover of the popular sports mag from Japan. Looks like he’s whiffing in a road game against the Philadelphia A’s.
1934 Tour Of Japan - In The Dugout
Here’s a great pic that shows Connie Mack, The Babe and Jimmie Foxx hanging out in the dugout during the ‘34 Tour Of Japan. Seems like this is either before the game started or the US Team was batting. Also, that looks like Lou Gehrig with his hand on his face next to Foxx.
Stabbed Japanese Publisher With American Friends - Tokyo, Japan - February 1935
The picture itself is from November 1934, but the backing press tag makes mention of the attack on Matsutarō Shōriki for political/economic reasons because of his support of the 1934 Baseball Tour. He survived the assassination attempt, leaving him with a 16” long scar across his neck from a broadsword. He’s largely considered the father of Japanese baseball. He also founded Nippon TV, the Yomiuri Giants and was a 10th Dan Judo Master.
