KIA Tigers infielder Jarryd Dale, who starred for Australia in the recent WBC tournament in Japan, continues to turn heads during spring training in Okinawa.
Dale Leads Victories in WBC
Dale represented Australia at the WBC, helping secure back-to-back wins over Taiwan and the Czech Republic. On January 5 at Tokyo Dome, Australia defeated Taiwan 3-0 in their Pool C opener. Dale contributed two home runs—a two-run shot and a solo homer—for three RBIs while Japan’s pitchers struck out Taiwan’s top three batters over three scoreless innings each.
Dale batted fifth as the starting shortstop, going 3-for-3 with one hit and one walk. Observers noted his precise contact in the lineup. As a first-time Asia Quarter participant, Dale struck out on 10 pitches with a strong strike ratio. He made solid contact against pitches from Japanese, Taiwanese, and Korean hurlers.
Manager Lee Bum-ho Elated by Dale’s Form
Ahead of KIA’s practice game against LG on the 6th at Okinawa’s King Stadium, manager Lee Bum-ho expressed optimism about Dale’s impact. Asked if he watched Dale’s performance the previous day, Lee replied, “Yes. It wasn’t a full-power display, but he poked a bloop single. I expected him in the 7th to 9th spot for the national team, but he batted fifth.”
Lee added, “The Australian manager likely saw Dale up close for the first time recently and got a strong impression, prompting the lineup adjustment. Taiwan’s players aren’t typical Minor Leaguers, so camp alone wouldn’t reveal their skills. But Dale showed excellent conditioning during training, impressing everyone. That’s why they moved him up—it’s what I think happened.”
Lee highlighted Dale’s value: “Even average hitters struggle for solo contact there, and without big games against Deil-like talent, even Minor League adjustments fall short. In Japan over two games, many foreign players underperformed despite seeing numerous fielders. No game matches that intensity—it’s reassuring.”
He continued, “Compared to others, Dale hits singles, draws walks, and Taiwan’s pitching was sharp yesterday. Experiencing Asia Quarter hitters helps. With matchups against Taiwan, Korea, and Japan, encountering diverse batter types builds confidence for the season—it’s extremely promising.”
Back-to-Back Strong Outings
In the late 6th practice game against the Czech Republic—the second group matchup—Dale again started at fifth shortstop. He ripped four at-bats for two hits, including a double and triple, boosting his tournament average to .429 (7-for-3).
Dale drove in four hits and two walks overall, with a tournament line of .429 (3-for-7). This further fueled Lee’s excitement. In the 3-1 lead during the 4th inning, Dale’s two-run double created breathing room after a bases-loaded walk. Later, in the 9th with a 4-1 advantage, his three-run triple and a follow-up infield single sealed the deal against a tiring pitcher.
