The Original Triple Three
In 1950, Kaoru Betto of the Mainichi Orions recorded .362/43 HR/43 SB, NPB's first Triple Three. This combination of power, speed, and batting average went unmatched for 65 years until Yanagita and Yamada both achieved it in 2015. A Keio University star before the war, Betto joined the Orions for the inaugural two-league season.
Post-War Star
Betto's prime coincided with Japan's post-war recovery, when professional baseball was rapidly becoming the national pastime. His powerful left-handed swing and speed made him the era's defining player. He led the Orions to the 1950 Pacific League championship and Japan Series title, earning MVP honors and giving hope to a recovering nation.
Career Stats and Hall of Fame
Career totals of .293/155 HR/556 RBI/148 SB across 1,236 games are remarkable considering 1950s ball quality and stadium conditions. After retiring in 1960 and managing the Orions, Betto was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979.
The Triple Three Lineage
Betto's 1950 Triple Three stood alone for 65 years until Yanagita (.363/34/32) and Yamada (.329/38/34) both achieved it in 2015, with Yamada repeating in 2016. Only three players in NPB history have accomplished this feat, making Betto the eternal 'original' of baseball's ultimate all-around achievement.