The SSG Landers have officially announced the signing of pitcher Jeon Jun-ho, a move aimed at strengthening their pitching staff. The 26-year-old right-hander, born in 1998, brings a new dimension to the Landers’ roster as they prepare for upcoming challenges, including potential roster expansions and international competitions.
Jeon Jun-ho’s Baseball Journey
Jeon Jun-ho’s professional baseball career began when he was selected by the LG Twins in the second round (92nd overall) of the 2017 KBO rookie draft. Standing at 1.81 meters and weighing 81 kilograms, he possesses the physical attributes of a developing pitcher. After graduating from Cheongwon High School, he officially joined the LG Twins in 2019.
Despite his draft position, Jeon faced stiff competition within the highly competitive LG Twins organization. His major league record with the Twins is modest, featuring 13 appearances with 7 hits, no home runs, and 1 RBI. In the 2024 season, he had an opportunity to join the first-team spring camp in Arizona, replacing Kim Beom-seok during the training period. However, his time with the Twins concluded with an announcement of his release following the end of the 2025 season.
Transition and Release from LG Twins
Throughout his tenure with the LG Twins, Jeon Jun-ho was primarily a pitcher. While the team considered his potential, they also provided him with training as an outfielder due to team circumstances. Facing limited opportunities as a pitcher, he attempted a transition to an infielder position in anticipation of the 2025 season. However, this move did not yield significant success, and he ultimately had to leave the team.
After being released by the LG Twins last year, Jeon Jun-ho spent time searching for a new team. His signing with the SSG Landers comes at a time when the team is actively seeking to bolster its pitching depth.
SSG Landers’ Strategic Pitching Reinforcement
The SSG Landers identified Jeon Jun-ho as a valuable pitching resource and decided to bring him into the fold. This decision is strategically driven by several factors impacting the team’s pitching rotation and depth.
Addressing Roster Gaps and International Commitments
Several key pitchers on the SSG Landers roster are facing potential absences. Starting pitcher Jo Hyeon-woo is slated to participate in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, scheduled for September. Additionally, pitchers Kim Gyu-min and Lee Yul-ye are currently fulfilling their mandatory military service in the Sangmu baseball team. These departures create significant gaps in the team’s pitching corps.
The current available pitchers for the SSG Landers include Lee Ji-young, Kim Min-sik, and Shin Beom-soo. While these players are contributing, the team recognizes the need for additional depth to effectively manage both the first and second teams. The upcoming expansion of roster entries in September further underscores the necessity of having a robust pitching staff.
Jeon Jun-ho’s Potential as a Backup Pitcher
After careful consideration and evaluation, the SSG Landers concluded that reinforcing the pitcher position was crucial. Jeon Jun-ho’s signing is seen as a proactive measure to address these needs. The team’s management believes that Jeon possesses stable fundamental skills and a strong, accurate throwing ability, making him a viable option as a backup pitcher.
A team spokesperson stated, “We have signed pitcher Jeon Jun-ho to strengthen our pitching depth, preparing for the enlistment and national team call-ups of our existing players.” The spokesperson further elaborated on the evaluation process: “Based on team tests and his performance, Jeon demonstrates stable basic skills and possesses strong, accurate throwing capabilities as a pitcher. We assess him as a player who can be utilized as backup resource.””
Jeon Jun-ho’s addition to the SSG Landers signifies a strategic move to enhance team resilience and competitiveness. His background, though marked by challenges, offers the Landers a chance to develop a pitcher who can contribute to their long-term goals, particularly in navigating the demanding schedule and potential player absences throughout the remainder of the season and beyond.
