Japanese baseball legend Shigeo Nagashima, revered as one of the country’s greatest sports icons, has died aged 89. The Yomiuri Giants, his longtime team, confirmed he passed away from pneumonia at a hospital in Tokyo.
Affectionately known as “Mr. Giants,” Nagashima became a national symbol of excellence during Japan’s post-war economic boom. He played 2,186 games with the Yomiuri Giants, hitting 444 home runs and securing nine consecutive Japan Series titles in the 1960s and 70s.
His death marks the end of an era for Japanese baseball. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi paid tribute to Nagashima, describing him as “a sunny person” who brought “bright dreams and hopes to society as a national star.”
Nagashima’s charisma, discipline, and unmatched skill made him a household name from the moment he joined the Giants in 1958. He captivated fans not only with his athletic feats but also with his spirited
personality, becoming a cultural icon during a time of growing national confidence.
Among his most memorable achievements was a dramatic game winning home run in 1959 during the first ever professional baseball game attended by the Japanese Emperor cementing his legacy in national history.
Sadaharu Oh, Nagashima’s longtime teammate and holder of the world record for most career home runs, expressed deep sorrow at the loss. He taught me lots of things. I’m grateful to have been able to play with him, said Oh, 85. Together, the two formed the legendary “O-N” duo, one of the most feared partnerships in Japanese baseball history.
Nagashima retired from professional play in 1974, after a 17-year career that included six Central League batting titles. He later returned to the Giants as manager, leading the team to two more Japan Series championships over 15 seasons.
Younger generations of players also paid tribute. Shohei Ohtani, the LA Dodgers superstar and one of Japan’s current baseball icons, shared photos of himself with Nagashima on Instagram. May your soul rest in peace, the 30-year-old wrote.
Nagashima’s legacy goes beyond sports. For many, he represented the spirit of modern Japan resilient, graceful, and ever-persistent. His career inspired countless fans and players across generations.
His contributions were formally recognized in 2013 when he was awarded the People’s Honour Award by the Japanese government. Even in retirement, Nagashima remained a respected figure at baseball events and national ceremonies.
