Nagashima was a central figure in Japanese baseball’s golden era, starring for the Yomiuri Giants during their unprecedented run of nine consecutive Japan Series championships from 1965 to 1973. His dynamic partnership with home run king Sadaharu Oh helped transform baseball into Japan’s most cherished national pastime.
Together, the pair captured the hearts of a nation rising from the ashes of World War II. Their on-field feats became must-watch events for Japanese families gathered around black-and-white television sets during the country’s post-war economic boom.
Nagashima’s charisma and charm extended far beyond the diamond. Seen as a symbol of Japan’s growing confidence and prosperity, he remained a cherished public figure for decades.
In 1959, he cemented his legend with a walk-off home run in the first professional baseball game attended by Japan’s Emperor, an iconic moment in the nation’s sporting history.
Major League Baseball star Shohei Ohtani paid tribute to Nagashima on Instagram, writing to his 9.5 million followers, “May your soul rest in peace.”
Over a 17-year career, Nagashima played in 2,186 games, recording 444 home runs. He won the Central League batting title six times and led the league in home runs twice before retiring in 1974.
Reacting to the news, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary described Nagashima as “a sunny person.”
“He left so many brilliant records in the world of professional baseball for many years,” he said. “He gave bright dreams and hopes to society as a national star.”
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