Sadaharu Oh

Sadaharu Oh

1940-

Baseball's all-time home run king

Publié: September 24, 2025

Sadaharu Oh

Did you know one baseball player hit more home runs than anyone in professional baseball history? His name is Sadaharu Oh. Born in Tokyo in 1940, he became a superstar during the 1960s and 1970s. From 1959 until he retired in 1980 he played his whole career for the Yomiuri Giants. Oh finished with 868 career home runs — more than any other professional player. Today’s short talk will focus on that incredible record and what it teaches about practice and focus.

Sadaharu Oh

How did he do it? He practiced every day, studied pitchers, and learned perfect timing. His careful swing and smart thinking helped him hit ball after ball out of the park. Oh was a key player when the Giants dominated Japanese baseball; fans still remember the 'V9' run when the team won nine Japan Series in a row. When he stepped to the plate, everyone felt the excitement.

Sadaharu Oh

After he stopped playing in 1980, Oh became a coach and manager and shared his habits with younger players. His 868 home runs and long career made him a legend in Japan and inspired players worldwide. For young fans, his story shows that practice, patience, and teamwork can turn big dreams into real achievements. Remember: hard work and love for the game matter more than anything.

Questions fréquemment posées

How do you pronounce his name?

Sadaharu Oh is pronounced "SAH-dah-hah-roo Oh." In Japanese his name is written 王 貞治 (Oh Sadaharu).

Did he ever play baseball in the United States?

No. Sadaharu Oh spent his professional playing career in Japan with the Yomiuri Giants and built his record in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).

Is he honored for his achievements?

Yes. He is widely recognized as one of Japan’s greatest players and is honored in Japanese baseball history, including recognition in Japan’s baseball hall of fame.

Where can I read more about him?

A good place to start is the dedicated Wikipedia page listed in the reference links for photos, career details, and further reading.