The South Korean World Baseball Classic (WBC) preliminary team, managed by Ryu Ji-hyun, takes on the Hanwha Eagles in a key practice game on February 21 at a premier stadium in Okinawa, Japan. This scrimmage marks the second during the team’s intensive Okinawa training camp.
Strong Showing in Previous Outing
In the prior matchup on February 20 against Yokohama’s third-tier squad at Akama Stadium, Korea fell 3-4 but delivered impressive results, particularly from the starting pitcher. Drawn from the preliminary roster with professional experience in Taiwan and Japan’s leagues, the hurler earned top praise despite An Woo-jin’s status as the primary ace option.
Hanwha Eagles manager Kim Kyung-mun highlighted the performance, stating, “He pitched two perfect innings as expected.”
Managerial Exchange and Confidence Boost
Ryu Ji-hyun expressed gratitude to Kim Kyung-mun, saying, “Thanks. We prepared a solid selection for the core innings, even up to three. The mindset stays steady, but pushing forward like this feels right.”
The WBC squad positions Ryu Hyun-jin as its cornerstone ace, building momentum around his leadership.
Announced Lineups
Korea WBC Preliminary Team:
Shin Min-jae (2B), Ahn Hyeon-min (CF), Kim Do-young (DH), Moon Bo-kyung (1B), Koo Ja-wook (RF), Noh Si-hwan (3B), Mun Hyun-bin (INF), Kim Hyeong-jun (C), Kim Ju-won (LF)
Hanwha Eagles:
Lee Won-seok (INF), Yonatan Peraza (CF), Kang Baek-ho (1B), Chae Eun-sung (DH), Han Ji-yoon (LF), Ha Ju-seok (2B), Lee Do-yoon (3B), Heo In-seo (P), Sim Woo-jun (RF)
Pitching Plans
Korea plans to feature Ryu Hyun-jin for two innings, followed by Yu Young-chan (one inning) and Jo Byung-hyun (one inning).
Hanwha eyes relief options including Park Joon-young, Park Jae-gyu, Kwon Min-gyu, Kang Jae-min, and Hwang Jun-seok behind the plate post-performance review.
Additionally, in the February 20 game, Ahn Hyeon-min launched a solo home run, celebrating with a high-five alongside Ryu Hyun-jin.
