"I have not changed my mind to always support you." Director Hong Won-ki was surprised by Yokishi's test story. But still, I'm rooting for you
Jul 02, 2024
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Reports poured out that Eric Yokishi, who played as an ace for Kiwoom Heroes for five years, was tested as a substitute for the Doosan Bears, but Kiwoom manager Hong Won-ki was unaware of this. I was surprised to hear the news of Yokishi from the reporters, but I cheered for him.
Doosan searched for a substitute when Brandon Waddell was injured, and called in Yokishi, who left due to an injury during last season, to proceed with the test. This year, he showed his speed in the early 140km range even though he only trained individually because there was no team. As SSG Landers terminated their contract with Japanese replacement pitcher Shirakawa, Doosan will reportedly decide between Yokishi and Shirakawa. Yokishi is scheduled to pitch live on the 3rd.
Doosan admitted to testing Yokishi, so it was widely reported in the media for two days from June 30, but manager Hong Won-ki was not aware of this.
Coach Hong was embarrassed when reporters brought up Yokishi in the home game against the LG Twins at Gocheok Sky Dome on the 2nd. When told that he was tested by Doosan, Hong said "It's the first time I've heard of it. I'm a little embarrassed"I think it's part of baseball" he said.
Hong continued, `Our team has great pitchers, Hurado and Heysus. I talked about it when I was breaking up with Yokishi, and he said he would always support me wherever I went, and his heart still hasn't changed"I think it's very nice to be able to meet baseball anywhere."
Yokishi came to Kiwoom in 2019 and recorded a career-high 56 wins and 36 losses with a 2.85 ERA until last year. He has recorded double-digit wins for four consecutive years until 2022, and served as Kiwoom's ace by ranking first in ERA in 2020 and tied for first in multiple wins in 2021.
He was sluggish with 5 wins, 3 losses and an ERA of 4.39 in 12 games last year, and eventually broke up after suffering a ruptured left thigh in June.
indyk@sportschosun.com
