KIA Tigers, dubbed the ‘pitcher kingdom.’
The team is equipped with a mound that can be envied by all different clubs. The team is equipped with not only Yang Hyun-jong, a “big pitcher” but also native starters led by Yoon Eui-ri and one-two punch, plus other starters, including Lim Ki-young, Hwang Dong-ha and Kim Do-hyun. The bullpen is also equipped with various types, including the “JJJ trio” led by Jang Hyun-sik, Jeon Sang-hyun, and Jeong Hae-young, and Choi Ji-min, Lee Joon-young, Kwak Do-gyu, and Kim Dae-yu. Not to mention the “hackpot line” that is approaching the team’s batting average of 300.
In fact, Kia has not made such a decision this year. Both pitchers and batters have been praised for their solid depth in the 2022 season when they ranked fifth in the wild card game and the 2023 season when they finished sixth.
Stabilization of the mound is the reason why Kia has been able to lead the league without much hesitation this season. The team ranks first with 4.35 ERA through Sunday. The team ranks sixth overall in the 2022 season (5.20) and fifth last year (4.13).
Resolving KIA’s long-standing “home anxiety” was a major driving force in stabilizing the mound.
The recruitment of Kim through trade in July last year has become a “hands-on” for Kim. Kim, who was brought in by giving up infielder Ryu Ji-hyuk to ease anxiety at Kia’s home turf, has been instrumental in relieving anxiety at the Kia’s home turf by banking on his robust lead and defense capabilities, which are comparable to those of veteran players. Kia’s home turf, which had failed to find an answer even after experimenting with various catchers, including Kim Min-sik and Han Seung-taek, quickly stabilized after recruiting Kim.
Another synergy effect was also created. Han Jun-su’s rapid growth after gaining an opportunity in the second half of last year. Since the first draft of the 2018 rookie draft, he has been evaluated as slow in defense growth compared to his batting talent, but since he started to work with Kim, he has shown remarkable growth in both offense and defense. While playing a full-time season in the first division through rotation with Kim, he is continuing to complete the pennant race without any major ups and downs this season. 메이저사이트
While Kia was considered a strong candidate for presidential election this season, question marks were raised on its home turf. The reason was that while Kim Tae-gun is an experienced veteran, he has less experience playing full-time in the first division as a starting pitcher than other team catchers. It was unclear whether Han Jun-su, who is still focusing on growth, will be able to properly play the role of backup for Kim. However, since the beginning of the season, Kim Tae-gun and Han Jun-su have been keeping the home turf unwavering, alternately wearing masks. Kim Tae-gun and Han Jun-su have also been outstanding in defense and offense.
The effect of relieving anxiety at home and stabilizing the mound is acting as a driving force behind KIA’s lead run, creating synergy with the “nuclear hit line.” The foundation has been laid not only for this season but also for several years to come. Without the strong performances and growth of the two catchers, KIA would not have run for No. 1 and V12 challenge.
