#603) TSUYOSHI SHINJO

Tsuyoshi Shinjo was born in Fukoka, Japan. His contract was purchased by the New York Mets from the Hanshin Tigers (Japanese Central League) on December 11, 2000. Shinjo was a superb defensive centerfielder. Flashing large orange wristbands and featuring blinding speed he always seemed to have a flair for the dramatic. Teammate Al Leiter told the New York Times in 2001, "He's got a really cool thing about him. I imagine that if I understood Japanese, I'd see him as a hip guy. He came here to have fun and play great baseball." He remained in New York until he was traded with Desi Relaford to the San Francisco Giants for Shawn Estes on December 16, 2001. Tsuyoshi appeared in the World Series with the Giants in 2002. Becoming the first Japanese born player in history to do so.

Tsuyoshi Shinjo signed the program that was converted into this card for my friend Patrick. Shinjo was resigned by the Mets in 2003. During that season he was demoted to AAA Tidewater. This autograph came while the Tides were visiting the Indianapolis Indians on August 17, 2003.