Selected from 13 candidates, Wang, aka Sadaharu Oh, was lauded for his athletic skills with 41 votes from 50 judges. Inducted in Japan’s Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994, he is the first to receive the honor in both countries.
“Wang sets an outstanding example,” an official from the Sports Administration under the Ministry of Education said. “It is crucial we give this Japan-born ROC national his due reward.”
According to the official, Wang set a new world record for home runs during his 22-year Japanese career, slugging 868 pitches out of the country’s ballparks. He also led the national team as manager to victory in the inaugural 2006 World Baseball Classic, upsetting hot favorites Cuba.
Echoing the official’s remarks, TBHFA Managing Director Huang Ying-po said Wang often visits Taiwan and coaches young players. “We plan to host an awards ceremony and exhibition for Wang depending on his availability.”
Entering into its second year, the hall of fame is divided into two categories: special contribution and athletic skills. The requirement for induction in either section is 36 votes. None of the seven candidates for special contribution met the requirement this year.
In the TBHFA's inaugural selections last year, Hsieh Kuo-cheng, Hung Teng-sheng and Yen Hsiao-chang were recognized for their contributions to baseball, while coach Tseng Chi-en was inducted for his skills. (DF-JSM)
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