Takehiko Bessho

Who is Takehiko Bessho?

Takehiko Bessho, born Akira Bessho, was a Japanese sportsperson whose professional career as a player lasted from 1942 until 1960. Bessho first achieved fame as a pitcher in Nippon Pro Baseball; later, he served as a NPB manager.

Bessho spent his first five seasons in NPB with the Nankai franchise and his final 12 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants. He quickly established himself as top pitcher and went on to earn two Sawamura Awards, the Japanese equivalent of the Cy Young Award, and six Best Nine Awards. In 1947, Bessho set the NPB record for most complete games in a single season. In addition, Bessho earned the NPB Most Valuable Player Award in 1952 and 1956. Bessho retired after the 1960 season with 310 wins, a 2.18 earned run average, and 1,932 strikeouts.

After he retired from the sport as a player and a manager, Bessho became a sports broadcaster. In recognition of his accomplishments, the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame elected Bessho in 1979.