'I'm taking a break today' Park Ji-hwan's first third baseman start
Aug 17, 2024
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SSG will face Hanwha Eagles at SSG Landers Field in Incheon on the 17th. SSG lost 1-2 against Hanwha on the previous day due to the fatigue aftermath of the away game in Changwon and the good pitching of the opposing pitchers.
SSG made changes to its lineup ahead of the game on the 17th. First of all, Choi Jung will be the designated hitter. In the training part, coach Lee Sung-yong, who actively reflects the opinions of the training part, reported that `Choi Jung's body seems to be very heavy,' and decided to give defensive rest as a designated hitter. Choi Jeong has not lost his long-shot productivity with home runs in the last two consecutive games and four home runs in the last five games, but he is somewhat tired as he has consistently started in the heat.
Instead of Choi Jung, rookie Park Ji-hwan will play as the third baseman for the first time since his debut. Park Ji-hwan, a former shortstop in the youth national team, started defensive training on second and third bases ahead of this spring camp. The main position is shortstop, but Park Sung-han, the main shortstop in his 20s who can play full-time, is strong in SSG. Therefore, Park Ji-hwan has begun defensive training on second and third bases to expand his use for opportunities to play. This year is the first time he has played as a starting third baseman, but he has played as a substitute.
Manager Lee said, `I've been consulting with the defense coach a lot. Using Park Ji-hwan as third baseman is also a preparation for next year. Jung is doing well, but he is still old. Next year, I will get a year older, and I think there will be more situations where I have to use it as a designated hitter. As Ji-hwan has been training on third base steadily, I think it's better to experience it in advance for next year", he explained.
Another rookie infielder, Jung Joon-jae, who has been competing with Park Ji-hwan for the main second baseman position, is also able to defend third base. However, head coach Lee Soo-yong said, `I've also consulted with coaches, and I think Ji-hwan is a little better than Jun-jae in terms of third base defense," he added.
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