FUKUOKA, Japan — Japanese home run king Sadaharu Oh will step down as manager of the Softbank Hawks at the end of the 2008 season.

The 68-year-old Oh, who hit a record 868 home runs over 22 seasons when he played for the Yomiuri Giants, cited health concerns Tuesday as his reason for leaving the team.

"I want to thank everyone for their support over the years," Oh said. "I think it is best for the team if changes are made."

Oh was sidelined for the second half of the 2006 season because of stomach cancer. He had his stomach removed in July 2006.

Despite being picked by many to finish first, the Hawks have struggled this season with a 61-71 record with three ties, and are currently fifth in the six-team Pacific League standings.

Oh led Japan to the title at the inaugural World Baseball Classic in 2006. He also guided the Hawks to the Japan Series title in 1999 and 2003, and served as Yomiuri Giants manager for five years from 1984-88.