Kim Taek-yeon Nears Full Recovery, Potential Pitching Role Shift Eyed
Professional baseball pitcher Kim Taek-yeon is entering the final stages of his rehabilitation and is on the cusp of returning to the active roster. The Doosan Bears closer made a significant step in his recovery by pitching in a recent Futures League game.
Futures League Appearance Marks Progress
Kim Taek-yeon took the mound on June 6th at Icheon Bears Park during a Futures League game against the NC Dinos. He pitched one inning as the team’s second pitcher, facing four batters. During his outing, he allowed two hits, recorded one strikeout, and surrendered one earned run.
This appearance follows a previous outing by new foreign pitcher Takada Takuro, who started the game. Takada pitched two innings, giving up four hits, one walk, and two earned runs before passing the baton to Kim Taek-yeon in the bottom of the third inning, marking his unofficial KBO league debut. Takada threw 47 pitches, with 27 strikes.
Upon entering the game, Kim Taek-yeon faced immediate pressure. The leadoff hitter, Cheon Jae-hwan, hit a double, and Kim Beom-jun followed with a hit, putting runners on first and third with no outs. Although Hong Jong-pyo hit a line drive, Cheon Jae-hwan managed to score from third, resulting in an earned run. Kim Taek-yeon then struck out the next batter, Yoon Joon-ho, before being substituted out in the bottom of the fourth inning, with the team trailing 3-1.
Manager Weighs Closer Options Amidst Strong Performances
Manager Kim Won-hyung had previously expressed optimism about Kim Taek-yeon’s condition. “His physical condition is good. I heard he managed the game well. He is scheduled to pitch again in two days,” Manager Kim stated before a home game against the Kiwoom Heroes.
With Kim Taek-yeon sidelined, Lee Yeong-ha has stepped up to handle the closer role effectively. Despite a recent earned run, Manager Kim praised Lee’s efforts, noting, “He pitched well. The opposing batter made a good hit.” Lee was credited with the win in his last outing, allowing one earned run over 1 and 1/3 innings. He has recorded one win and four saves in his last 10 appearances.
The strong performance of Lee Yeong-ha has presented Manager Kim with a pleasant dilemma regarding the closer position upon Kim Taek-yeon’s return. “We need to see how Kim Taek-yeon pitches when he joins the first team, and we also need to assess Lee Yeong-ha’s current form,” Manager Kim explained. “Once Kim Taek-yeon is fully recovered, we will need to carefully consider the closer role. For now, I believe Lee Yeong-ha should continue to handle the closing duties.”
The manager emphasized Kim Taek-yeon’s importance to the team. “Kim Taek-yeon holds significant value for the team. His return could either maintain the current pitching setup or lead to a new configuration,” he added.
Kim Taek-yeon’s Injury and Rehabilitation
Kim Taek-yeon, the team’s primary closer, had a strong start to the season, posting a 0.87 ERA in 9 appearances with 3 saves. However, an unexpected injury halted his progress. On April 21st, during a game against the Lotte Giants, he recorded a save after pitching 1 and 2/3 scoreless innings. Three days later, while participating in bullpen pitching, he felt discomfort in his right shoulder. He was subsequently removed from the active roster on April 25th.
Following a thorough medical examination, Kim Taek-yeon was diagnosed with an inflammation of the rotator cuff in his right shoulder. After undergoing rehabilitation, his recent Futures League appearance marks his first game action. He is scheduled for his second Futures League outing on June 8th.
