In a thrilling start to the 2026 KBO League season, the Lotte Giants defeated the LG Twins 5-3 at Sajik Baseball Stadium in Busan on March 14. Lotte’s ace starter Jeong Cheol-won faced early challenges, surrendering a solo home run in a shaky first inning that sparked concerns over his condition.
Early Struggles for Lotte’s Ace
Jeong Cheol-won entered the game with high expectations after a dominant spring camp. However, the right-hander struggled right away. In the top of the first, LG’s leadoff hitter Kim Min-seong drew a walk. Han Tae-yang then crushed a two-run homer to left-center, putting LG ahead 2-0. Jeong managed to limit further damage but exited after one inning, having allowed three runs on three hits, including the long ball.
Jeong’s velocity appeared down, with his fastball sitting lower than usual. Despite solid strike zone location at times, the solo homer to Han Tae-yang highlighted potential issues. Officials noted no signs of injury, but his reduced speed raised eyebrows among fans and analysts.
Lotte’s Resilient Comeback
Trailing 3-0 after three innings, Lotte mounted a comeback. In the bottom of the third, Kim Min-seong ripped a two-run double to center, cutting the deficit to 3-2. pinch-hitter Han Tae-yang added an RBI single later, tying the game at 3-3.
The turning point came in the sixth. Son Ho-young launched a solo home run off LG starter Kim Seong-jin, giving Lotte a 4-3 lead. That blast proved decisive, as Lotte’s bullpen held firm.
Late-Inning Drama and Victory
Reliever Park Jae-yeop secured the ninth with a scoreless frame. Starter Rodriguez tossed 66 pitches over five innings for LG, allowing six hits, one homer, three walks, and two strikeouts. Lotte relievers Park Jun-woo, Hong Min-gi, Jeong Cheol-won (in relief?), and Park Jeong-min closed out the win.
Despite the early scare with their ace, Lotte’s offense delivered clutch hits, powering a season-opening victory. Jeong’s health remains a key storyline moving forward.
