Though the Swallows haven't been a very strong team until recently, they have had several high quality players over the years.

Considered the greatest Japanese pitcher of all-time, Masaichi Kaneda played for the Swallows in the 1950s and '60s.

Tsutomu Wakamatsu compiled the second highest career batting average. In nearly five decades, other Swallows players have also left their mark.

The Swallows have also had some very impressive foreign players, including 1995 MVP Tom O'Malley, former Atlanta Braves all-star Bob Horner, and pitcher Terry Bross who came one "deadball" (hit batter) away from pitching a perfect game in 1995.

Many of the team's all time great players are still in uniform. Takahiro Ikeyama and Atsuya Furuta may both be headed for the Hall of Fame when they retire.

Some of the past stars are still active but have joined other teams or leagues.

Though the Swallows released Bross, he will join the Seibu Lions in 1998. Jack Howell has played a few years for the Anaheim Angels, while his former teammate, Katsumi Hirosawa, now plays for the Yomiuri Giants. Jim Tatum accepted a Minor League contract and Masato Yoshii is looking to become the next Japanese pitcher to find success in the Major Leagues with the New York Mets.

For more information on these and other past Yakult Swallows stars...