The SSG Landers have extended their winning streak to four games following a decisive 10-4 victory over the NC Dinos. The win was anchored by a stellar pitching performance from starter Kim Geon-woo, who also contributed with his bat, and a powerful offensive display from the entire team. This victory marks a significant milestone for Kim, who secured his seventh win of the season.
Kim Geon-woo Earns Seventh Win Amidst Early Challenges
Despite facing several precarious situations on the mound, starting pitcher Kim Geon-woo managed to navigate through the NC Dinos’ offense, ultimately pitching five scoreless innings. He allowed five hits and three walks while striking out three batters, earning his seventh win of the season against seven losses. Kim expressed his relief and gratitude following the game, stating, “There were crises in today’s game, but I’m happy the team was able to win. I’m thankful I could contribute to the victory. The teammates also scored many runs, allowing me to become the winning pitcher.”
Kim acknowledged the pressure he felt, particularly after a string of games in June where he struggled to secure wins. “There were many games where I couldn’t get a win in June. I felt frustrated myself,” he recalled. “So, I just thought about preparing better. (Jo) Hyeon-woo, who matched my rhythm, led well. Even today, during a crisis, he gave me courage, saying, ‘The ball is good, so trust yourself and throw.’ Thanks to him, I was able to overcome the crisis.”
The strong rapport between Kim and catcher Jo Hyeon-woo was evident. “We talk a lot because we’re together often,” Kim explained. “We often share opinions while discussing baseball-related matters. It allows for various attempts during the game. I’m thankful to Hyeon-woo for his hard work today.”
SSG Landers’ Offense Powers Through for Victory
The SSG Landers established an early lead in the second inning when Ahn Sang-hyun hit a three-run home run. Their advantage grew in the third and fourth innings with solo home runs from Park Sung-han and Jo Hyeon-woo, respectively, extending the score to 5-0. SSG added another run in the fifth inning, and the decisive blows came in the sixth and seventh innings with a two-run single by Park Sung-han and another two-run single by Kim Kang-min, effectively sealing the victory.
While the SSG bullpen faced some challenges, allowing two runs in the sixth inning, the offense quickly responded to re-establish a comfortable lead. In the eighth inning, Lee Geon-wook successfully navigated a bases-loaded, no-out situation, and reliever Choi Min-jun minimized further damage, securing the win.
Key Offensive Contributions:
- Ahn Sang-hyun: 3-run home run in the 2nd inning.
- Park Sung-han: Solo home run in the 3rd inning, 2-run single in the 6th inning.
- Jo Hyeon-woo: Solo home run in the 4th inning.
- Kim Kang-min: 2-run single in the 7th inning.
Looking Ahead: Kim Geon-woo’s Determination
Kim Geon-woo’s performance was a testament to his resilience, overcoming a prolonged slump and early-season struggles. His ability to manage critical situations and prevent runs, even when runners reached base frequently, was crucial. Supported by consistent run production from the offense, Kim was able to guide the game’s flow and lay the foundation for the win.
Reflecting on the team effort, Kim stated, “Recording a win is possible with the help of hitters and the bullpen. So, I just do my part. I want to pitch many innings. If I do well, the team wins too. I will aim for a two-digit win total and a stable innings count so that the team can win.”
Throughout the game, from the first to the fifth inning, Kim faced multiple scoring threats with hits and walks. However, he consistently escaped jams through timely defensive plays and strikeouts. Notably, in the first inning with one out and runners on first and second, and again in the second and fifth innings with the leadoff batter reaching base, Kim remained composed. His steady pitching effectively shut down the NC Dinos’ lineup, preventing them from capitalizing on these opportunities.
The SSG Landers’ victory, their fourth in a row, highlights the team’s strong performance, with both pitching and hitting contributing significantly. The NC Dinos, despite a late-game push, were unable to overcome the early deficit.
