Last year, it was reissued following Hangzhou AG and APBC.
Kwak Do-gyu and only two left-handed bullpen members, important role
Choi Ji-min met with reporters after completing national team training at Gocheok Sky Dome on the 7th and said, “No matter what situation I go into, I will not be nervous and throw confidently,” and added, “As it is an international competition, I will take responsibility and do better.”
The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) confirmed and announced the final 28 players to participate in the Premier 12 this morning. Of the existing 34 people, 6, including Eom Sang-baek (KT) and Kim Young-woong (Samsung), were excluded.
Manager Ryu was very concerned about Choi Ji-min’s decline in pitching status, but ultimately decided to bring in two left-handed bullpen players along with Kwak Do-gyu. There are only three left-handed pitchers in the national team, including starting pitcher Choi Seung-yong (Doosan).
Manager Ryu Joong-il said, “I thought a lot about (Choi Ji-min’s selection),” and added, “The opposing teams, the Dominican Republic, Taiwan, and Japan, have a lot of left-handed hitters. For one, I was anxious. So I was selected. “There is still time (to recover) until the competition,” he explained.
Fortunately, Choi Ji-min, who had been in the 2nd team, rejoined the 1st team at the end of the season and contributed to KIA’s combined victory. He said, “It doesn’t really feel like I joined the national team just one day after winning (that I won),” and added, “I will prepare well so that I can pitch with confidence here as well.”
In the entry announcement that day, right-handed bullpen Jeon Sang-hyun and catcher Han Jun-su, both of KIA, were not selected. He was determined to do his best in the competition, even to the extent of his brothers.
Choi Ji-min said, “It would have been great if everyone had gone together, but it is very unfortunate that Sanghyun and Junsu-hyung were left out,” and emphasized, “I was selected in place of my hyungs, but I will work hard to do my part well.”
Meanwhile, Choi Ji-min heard the news of coach Lee Beom-ho’s contract renewal during the national team training camp. On the 3rd, the KIA club signed a contract with coach Beom-ho Lee for a total of 2.6 billion won (500 million won in down payment, 500 million won in annual salary, 600 million won in options) over three years.
He was delighted with the news of Coach Lee’s contract and said, “The coach makes the players feel very comfortable, and since he has renewed his contract, we will be able to achieve good results next year as well.”
(Seoul = News 1)
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Interview Between Time.news Editor and Baseball Expert on the Korean National Team’s Preparations for the Premier 12
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have with us a baseball expert to discuss some exciting developments in the Korean national baseball team as they prepare for the Premier 12. Thank you for joining us!
Expert: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss the national team and their preparations.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Recently, Choi Ji-min expressed a lot of confidence going into the international competition. He mentioned that he’d “not be nervous” and would take responsibility to perform well. How important is a player’s mindset in high-stakes tournaments like the Premier 12?
Expert: A player’s mindset is absolutely crucial, especially in high-pressure situations like international tournaments. Confidence can significantly influence a player’s performance. When athletes like Choi Ji-min project assurance, it helps not only them but also boosts the morale of the entire team. His comments suggest he’s ready to embrace the challenge, which is very encouraging.
Editor: Speaking of challenges, Manager Ryu Joong-il had to make some tough decisions when selecting the final roster, opting to include only three left-handed pitchers, including Choi Ji-min and Kwak Do-gyu. How does this strategy impact the team against left-handed hitters, especially considering their upcoming opponents like Japan and the Dominican Republic?
Expert: The strategy reflects a tactical approach to team composition. Left-handed hitters often struggle against left-handed pitchers, so having a couple of them in the bullpen gives the team a tactical advantage. However, it’s also a risk, given the limited number of left-handed options. Manager Ryu’s decision underscores a balance between expectations and performance capabilities, especially since the competition has some strong lefty hitters.
Editor: It’s interesting how he has to weigh performance against potential matchups. Choi Ji-min’s journey back to the first team after contributing to KIA’s success is compelling. How does a player’s performance in domestic leagues translate to expectations on an international stage?
Expert: Performance in domestic leagues gives players valuable experience and form, but the international stage often presents different challenges—like varying levels of competition and different game dynamics. For Choi Ji-min, having had a successful stint with KIA is a confidence booster. However, it’s essential that he adapts quickly to the pressure and intensity of international play where the stakes are much higher.
Editor: That brings us to the emotional aspect of team dynamics. Choi mentioned his disappointment over teammates Jeon Sang-hyun and Han Jun-su not being selected. How important is camaraderie and emotional support among teammates heading into competition?
Expert: Camaraderie is a vital element in any team sport, and it can significantly impact performance. When players support each other, it fosters a positive environment which can lead to better teamwork on the field. Choi’s acknowledgment of his teammates shows his understanding that while the focus is on individual talent, the overall synergy within the team can make or break their success.
Editor: Absolutely. Lastly, Choi expressed optimism regarding Coach Lee Beom-ho’s contract renewal. How does consistent leadership in a coaching role affect not just player development, but also team chemistry?
Expert: Consistent coaching provides stability, which is crucial for player development and team chemistry. Coach Lee’s style of fostering comfort among players plays a significant role in how they perform under pressure. When players feel secure and supported, they’re more likely to take risks and express themselves on the field. It creates a solid foundation for achieving collective goals.
Editor: Thank you for your insights! It looks like the Korean national baseball team has a lot to look forward to as they gear up for the Premier 12, with a mix of confidence, strategy, and strong team dynamics playing pivotal roles.
Expert: Absolutely! I’m looking forward to seeing how they perform on the international stage. Thank you for having me!
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in! Stay tuned for more updates on the world of sports right here at Time.news.