KIA Tigers relief pitcher Hong Geon-hui has shown signs of resurgence after a rocky start, delivering back-to-back perfect innings in recent outings despite entering the season with high expectations from a lucrative contract.
Blockbuster Signing Amid FA Market Challenges
Hong Geon-hui inked a one-year deal worth 7 billion won ($5 million) with KIA in January, including a 6.5 billion won signing bonus and 500 million won in incentives. After opting out of a two-year, 15 billion won free-agent pact with the Doosan Bears, he found limited interest on the open market and returned to structured team play.
Career Highlights and Injury Setbacks
Traded to Doosan from LG in 2020, Hong posted solid numbers over six seasons: a 3-3 record, 3.00 ERA across 30 appearances with three saves, two holds (one from a save situation), two pickoffs, and two strikeouts per appearance on average. Persistent arm issues, however, prevented full health.
Strong Recent Performances
Hong struggled in his spring training finale and season debut on April 1 against KT, allowing two runs on three hits in two-thirds of an inning with two strikeouts. He rebounded swiftly, tossing perfect innings against Lotte on April 4 and Samsung on April 8.
In the April 8 victory over Samsung (7-4), Hong entered in the sixth and struck out the side’s first two batters. He battled back from a full count against catcher Kim Sang-jun, inducing a game-ending out. Kim smashed two doubles earlier, but Hong induced a crucial tag-up play for the final out.
Catcher’s Praise for Velocity and Command
Catcher Na Sung-bum lauded Hong’s efforts ahead of the April 10 Hanwha game, stating, “Even during spring camp, his speed looked good and steady. It’s not like other speeds—it’s real. Here in one game, it picks up 2-3 km/h more, as I see it.”
Na added, “The true speed hitter isn’t about timing; it’s about peering through the glove and rising with command. His arm state felt good and sharp, so receiving his pitches brought creation through collaboration.”
