Veteran slugger Choi Hyoung-woo of the Samsung Lions has achieved two significant career milestones, cementing his legacy as one of the KBO League’s most consistent hitters. On May 22nd, Choi entered the record books during a road game against the Kiwoom Heroes at Gocheok Sky Dome, starting as the designated hitter and batting cleanup.
Historic Appearances and Consistent Performance
Choi’s start in the May 22nd game marked his 2,400th career appearance, placing him third all-time in KBO history for games played. This landmark achievement underscores his remarkable longevity and sustained presence in professional baseball.
Adding to this historic day, Choi immediately made an impact at the plate. In his very first at-bat against Kiwoom’s starting pitcher, Raúl Alcántara, he connected for a crucial hit. This single not only broke a brief hitless streak from the previous game but also secured his 100th hit of the current season. This marks the fifth consecutive season Choi has reached the 100-hit mark, a testament to his enduring offensive prowess and dedication.
A Career Defined by Consistency
Choi Hyoung-woo, who debuted in the KBO in 2002 with the Samsung Lions, has built a career characterized by remarkable consistency, particularly in recent years. After a significant tenure with the KIA Tigers from 2017 until 2025, he returned to his original team, the Samsung Lions, as a free agent.
His performance in recent seasons highlights his sustained ability to produce at a high level:
- 2022: 120 hits
- 2023: 130 hits
- 2024: 119 hits
- 2025: 144 hits
These numbers demonstrate a remarkable ability to consistently surpass the 100-hit threshold, even as he has navigated team changes and the natural progression of a long career.
The Road to the Milestones
The game on May 22nd saw the Samsung Lions’ lineup configured as follows: Kim Ji-chan (center field), Kim Seong-yun (left field), Gu Ja-wook (right field), Choi Hyoung-woo (designated hitter), David Diaz (first base), Ryu Ji-hyuk (second base), Lee Jae-hyun (shortstop), Kim Young-woong (third base), and Kim Do-hwan (catcher). The starting pitcher for the Lions was Kim Baek-san.
Choi’s journey to his 100th hit of the season was punctuated by a multi-hit performance against the Lotte Giants on May 19th. While he experienced a hitless outing in four at-bats in the preceding game against the Kiwoom Heroes, his immediate success in the first at-bat on May 22nd ensured he reached his season goal.
Looking Ahead
Choi Hyoung-woo’s dual achievements—his 2,400th game appearance and his fifth consecutive 100-hit season—are significant markers in his distinguished KBO career. They reflect not only his individual skill and dedication but also his enduring impact on the Samsung Lions and the league as a whole. As the season progresses, fans will undoubtedly be watching to see how much further he can extend these impressive records.
