Kiwoom Heroes’ relief pitcher Yuto (27) has emerged as a formidable force on the mound, delivering clutch performances when the team needed them most. Despite an unexpected appearance in the 11th inning of a tied game against the Hanwha Eagles on July 19th, Yuto pitched a scoreless inning, striking out three batters and preserving the tie. This unexpected outing came after he had already pitched on consecutive days, highlighting his dedication and willingness to step up for his team.
Unexpected Call to Action
Yuto was not initially scheduled to pitch on July 19th. He was watching the game from the dugout, having already pitched in previous contests. However, with the game tied 9-9 in the bottom of the 11th inning, the team called on him to prevent a loss. He responded by entering the game and delivering a perfect inning of relief, facing four batters, allowing no hits or walks, and striking out three. This flawless performance extended his scoreless streak and secured a valuable tie for the Heroes.
Facing a Tough Opponent
In his outing, Yuto had to face the league’s leading hitter, Kang Baek-ho. Yuto admitted that facing Kang Baek-ho was on his mind, especially after giving up a hit to him the previous day. “Yesterday, I gave up a hit to Kang Baek-ho, so today I was much more focused on him as soon as he came to bat,” Yuto recalled. “I just thought, ‘I have to get him out,’ and threw my pitches with that mindset.” Four of the six pitches he threw to Kang Baek-ho were sliders. A tense moment occurred when Yuto threw a slider that Kang Baek-ho fouled off, narrowly avoiding a hit. Yuto even smiled behind his glove at this point.
Describing the play, Yuto said, “I heard the ball hit Kang Baek-ho’s bat. But then Kim Gun-hee acted like it was a strikeout, and I laughed.” However, Kim Gun-hee, the catcher, genuinely thought it was a foul tip at the time. When asked directly, Kim Gun-hee sheepishly admitted, “At first, I thought it was a foul tip without realizing the ball had hit the ground. But when I looked at the ball, it was covered in dirt.”
Consistent Performance and Role
This save was Yuto’s ninth of the season. He and Won Jong-hyun share the role of closing out games. Their strategy involves alternating appearances: if Yuto pitches in the 8th or 9th inning to face the heart of the opposing lineup, Won Jong-hyun will finish the game, and vice versa. On July 19th, the younger Yuto was called upon in the 11th inning, a situation he seems unfazed by.
Yuto commented on his role, stating, “Whether I come in during the 8th or 9th inning, the batters I face are all dangerous hitters. So, the pressure and stress feel similar regardless of the inning.” He added, “I just focus on giving 100% every time I go out to the mound.”
Impressive Recent Statistics
Since his first appearance against Hanwha in mid-June, Yuto has been on an incredible run. In his last 10 appearances leading up to the July 19th game, he has pitched 10 scoreless innings. His statistics during this period are remarkable: he has allowed only 5 hits, 1 walk, and 11 strikeouts, maintaining an Earned Run Average (ERA) of 0.00. His opponents’ batting average against him is a mere 0.152.
Adapting to the KBO
Interestingly, Yuto’s KBO debut was also at the Daejeon Hanwha Life Eagles Park. His first outing was challenging, as he struggled to adjust to the league, giving up 4 hits and 3 runs in just 2/3 of an inning. However, he has since transformed into a top-tier reliever for the Heroes in the second half of the season.
Reflecting on his journey, Yuto shared, “After finishing the first half of the season, I feel like I’ve grasped the atmosphere of the KBO league, and I’ve also developed a strong sense of camaraderie with my teammates.” He continued, “Compared to my debut, I don’t feel as nervous these days. As the results of my pitches have been consistently good, I feel very comfortable and confident on the mound now.”
Team Chemistry and Confidence
Yuto also expressed strong agreement with manager Son Hyuk’s recent statement that the team could escape the bottom of the standings with their current momentum. “Our relief pitchers are all pitching very well without major mistakes, and our hitters are showing incredible focus in every game, even creating rallies in the late innings,” Yuto said. “I believe we can achieve better results because I trust my teammates completely when I take the mound.” He praised the team’s solid winning mentality.
All-Star Break Performance
Yuto gained national attention during the All-Star break with a memorable performance. Although Hwang Sung-bin of the Lotte Giants won the performance award, many felt Yuto was the rightful recipient. Yuto admitted to being a little disappointed about not receiving the prize, as he had heard the prize money was substantial. “I heard the prize money was quite a lot, so I was a bit disappointed not to receive the award,” he said with a wry smile. “But I was really happy to meet and interact with the top stars of the KBO and have a fun time creating memories.”
During the All-Star game, Yuto, like in regular season games, threw his fastball at speeds up to 154 km/h, creating a spectacle. He explained his mindset: “Instead of just pitching casually because it was an All-Star game, I prepared by thinking I absolutely had to throw my strongest pitches, whether fastballs or breaking balls, as hard as I could whenever I was on the mound.” This demonstrated his serious and dedicated approach to the game, even in an exhibition setting.
