A little bit under the radar, this one. AFP got some interesting comments from Oh Sadaharu after being honored by the Foreign Sportswriters’ Association of Japan Monday for his lifetime achievements.

“I think A-Rod will eventually hit his 1,000th,” the 67-year-old Oh said. “Technically, he is already capable of doing so and he has been free from injuries. I hope he will set his goal that high and challenge it.”

He went on to say he didn’t think any Japanese players would break his record anytime in the near future, but he does think Barry Bonds may still yet make a run at his number of 868, remarking that while Bonds is “advanced in his age” he is still physically fit.

In the article Oh also says while he told his players that 2008 would be his final season as a manager, that he might extend his career beyond next season.

“I made the comment just to brace my players for next year,” he said. “I will go for it as if it will be my last year.”