Akihito Kondo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Akihito Kondo |
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Kondo in 1961
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| Second baseman | |||
| Born: 1 April 1938 Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan |
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| Died: 27 March 2019 (aged 80) | |||
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As player
As manager
As coach
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Akihito Kondo (近藤 昭仁, Kondo Akihito, 1 April 1938 – 27 March 2019) was a famous Japanese Nippon Professional Baseball player and manager. He was born on April 1, 1938, in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Japan. Kondo played as a second baseman for the Taiyō Whales team for many years, from 1960 to 1973. He became a true baseball hero when he was named the Japan Series Most Valuable Player in 1960. After his playing days, he continued his career in baseball as a coach and later as a manager for teams like the Yokohama BayStars and the Chiba Lotte Marines. Akihito Kondo passed away on March 27, 2019, just a few days before his 81st birthday.
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Akihito Kondo: A Baseball Legend
Akihito Kondo was a very important person in Japanese baseball. He spent most of his life involved with the sport, first as a talented player, then as a coach, and finally as a manager. His career lasted for decades, showing his deep love and dedication to baseball.
Playing Days with the Taiyō Whales
Kondo started his professional baseball journey in 1960 with the Taiyō Whales. He quickly became known as a skilled second baseman. This position is very important in baseball because it requires quick reflexes and smart plays to stop opponents from scoring.
The 1960 Japan Series Victory
The biggest moment in Akihito Kondo's playing career happened in 1960. That year, his team, the Taiyō Whales, won the Japan Series. This is like the World Series in America, where the best teams compete for the championship. Kondo played a huge role in their victory. His excellent performance earned him the Most Valuable Player award for the series. This was a big achievement for him and his team.
From Player to Coach and Manager
After playing for 14 seasons, Akihito Kondo retired as a player in 1973. But he didn't leave baseball. He decided to share his knowledge and experience with younger players.
He started as a coach for his old team, the Yokohama Taiyō Whales, from 1974 to 1978. He also coached for other famous teams like the Yakult Swallows, Seibu Lions, and Yomiuri Giants.
Leading Teams as a Manager
Later, Kondo took on the role of a manager, which is like being the head coach of a team. He managed the Yokohama BayStars from 1993 to 1995. Then, he led the Chiba Lotte Marines in 1997 and 1998. As a manager, he was responsible for making important decisions about the team's strategy and helping players improve.
Legacy in Japanese Baseball
Akihito Kondo's long career, both as a player and a manager, left a lasting mark on Japanese baseball. He was remembered for his skills on the field and his leadership off it. His contributions helped shape the sport in Japan for many years.
