On this day in 40 years ago, Sadaharu Oh announced his retirement. This was after 22 years and 868 homeruns. He played his entire career for the Yomiuri Giants in Tokyo. His home stadium during that time was Korakuen Stadium which has the dimensions of 288 feet down the line, 396 in center and 361 in the gaps. I give these numbers not to dispute his HR numbers but to give a comparison with Hank Aaron, his MLB counterpart.
The dimensions at Fulton County Stadium were 325-330 down the lines, 400-402 in center and 375-385 in the gaps. These dimensions changed a couple times during Aaron's career. Most of that time it was 330-375-400. Milwaukee County Stadium was 315 down the lines, 362 in the gaps and 402 in center.
So there may be an argument that the fences were a little closer. But another argument is that the seasons were much shorter in Japan. The length of the regular seasons varied from 114-140 games, most were in the 130 neighborhood. Although comparisons are difficult, you cannot discount his accomplishments.
Great looking card. He Dude was still great compared to his peers in Japan no matter how you shake it. Great looking card and I like seeing players you wouldn't normally see on these designs showcased on those cards. Good stuff.
ReplyDelete