Japan’s top pitcher Hiroto Saiki encountered a formidable challenge from San Francisco Giants newcomer Lee Jung-hoo during an exhibition matchup, admitting the Korean star plays at a major league level.
Exhibition Clash at Kyocera Dome
On February 1 at Osaka’s Kyocera Dome, Lee Jung-hoo started in right field as the No. 3 hitter against Japan’s World Baseball Classic (WBC) national team. He delivered a standout performance, going 3-for-3 with a walk in a game that ended in a 3-3 tie. Lee’s display left Japanese players, including Saiki of the Hanshin Tigers, visibly impressed.
Standing 1.89 meters tall with a fastball topping 158 km/h, Saiki relies on a devastating splitter that dives sharply after his high-velocity heaters. Yet, Lee navigated these pitches masterfully, crushing balls with authority.
Saiki’s Season Dominance Meets New Test
Saiki posted an impressive 12-6 record over 24 starts last season, logging 157 innings with a 1.55 ERA, including three complete games and two shutouts. In this outing, he pitched three innings, surrendering five hits and two runs while fanning five—catching three straight at one point. However, Lee exploited two doubles and two homers against him.
Post-game, Saiki reflected, “I’m honestly hitting level balls with confidence now. Even against the players I’m facing, there’s a sense that I’m one level higher.” He added, “In my first full inning, first time seeing that straight heat followed by a forkball (splitter)—such a hitter is rare. Ah, even in the big leagues, there aren’t many like that.”
Lee’s Power and Precision Shine
In the third inning, Lee smashed a 151 km/h fastball for a clean hit to left field, showcasing his elite timing and plate coverage. His build generates explosive power, with sinker-like movement on his splitter dropping to around 130 km/h mid-flight.
Lee shared his mindset: “Three years ago in the WBC, I faced Japan’s ace and hit a home run off Shohei Ohtani (now with the Dodgers). That heavy, unresponsive fastball—I powered through the whole lineup and launched the home run. I felt good becoming more aggressive. Today, I showed the true weight of my non-fastball pitches. I plan to keep winning confidently every game.”
Giants’ Blockbuster Signing
Lee’s prowess underscores his value after signing a 113 million dollar (approximately 1,645 billion won) posting deal with the Giants. For the 26-year-old Saiki, in just his second pro season after battling injuries, facing Lee reignited his passion as he eyes another WBC run.
