Manager Seeks Solutions as Team Faces Extended Losing Skid
Incheon, South Korea – The SSG Landers are grappling with an unprecedented 12-game losing streak, prompting manager Lee Kang-yong to address the team’s mounting pressure and search for a path to victory. Speaking before a recent game against the Kiwoom Heroes, Lee urged his players to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the current slump.
Focus on Breaking the Losing Cycle
“I’ve told the players not to be too burdened by the losing streak,” Lee stated. “If we can just secure one win, I believe the players will find their momentum and perform at their best going forward.”
The team’s lineup for the game featured Park Sung-han at shortstop, Jeong Jun-jae at second base, Choi Jeong at third base, Kim Jae-hwan as designated hitter, and Guillermo Heredia in left field. Oh Tae-gon started at first base, Jeon Ui-san in right field, and Jo Hyeon-woo as catcher, with Choi Ji-hoon in center field. The starting pitcher was Ethan Buniato.
Jeon Ui-san Called Up Amidst Roster Changes
Jeon Ui-san, recently discharged from military service, was immediately called up to the main roster and included in the starting lineup. This season in the Futures League, Jeon showcased impressive performance, batting .344 with 9 home runs, 47 RBIs, and an OPS of 1.024 across 45 games.
“Jeon Ui-san performed well during his time in the military program and has consistently shown good form in the minor leagues,” Manager Lee explained. “His stability when hitting in the major league suggests he is ready. We need new strategies to break this losing streak, and bringing in fresh talent like Jeon is part of that.”
The SSG Landers made significant roster adjustments prior to this game. On June 1st, Han Yu-seom, Lee Ji-yeong, and Lee Jeong-beom were removed from the active roster. Mun Seong-won was added to the roster for the current game. Jo Hyeon-woo, Kim Seong-uk, Jeon Ui-san, and Baek Seung-gun were called up to the major league team.
Key Player Injury Adds to Concerns
Adding to the team’s challenges, Mun Seong-won, who had been performing well offensively, has been sidelined due to pain in his right shoulder. “We conducted a throwing session today, and the pain was concerning, so it’s best to rest him,” Manager Lee said with visible frustration. “It’s a shame, but there’s nothing we can do. We prepared extensively for this season, including spring training, and I’m unsure how to move forward from here.”
Closer Jo Byeong-heon has also been experiencing a dip in performance recently. “We’ve reviewed various data, and there are no apparent statistical issues,” Lee commented. “I suspect it might be a mental challenge. We considered sending him to the minor league for a rest, but with Mun Seong-won’s absence, that option is no longer feasible.”
