DAEGU: Samsung Lions captain Koo Ja-wook has declared his readiness to continue playing despite recent health challenges, as his team advances in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Samsung Lions, Koo experienced nausea and vomiting following the team’s postseason victory but has recovered significantly to participate in the ongoing series. “I am feeling better than yesterday, and I can definitely play,” Koo stated during a pregame press conference before Game 2 against the LG Twins at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. He emphasized the importance of his presence in the lineup for team morale and performance.
Koo was pivotal in the Lions’ 10-4 victory over the LG Twins in Sunday’s Game 1, despite suffering from a migraine. He managed to hit a three-run homer and added two more hits, scoring three times, which significantly contributed to the team’s victory. After the game, he received treatment at a local hospital.
Describing his condition during the game, Koo mention
ed, “I was dizzy the whole game, and I was worried about hurting the team.” However, his performance did not falter, and he credited his success to luck and the collective effort of his teammates. “The win was a total team effort. We played great defense, and our pitchers did an excellent job,” he added.
Despite usually being an energetic presence in the dugout, Koo’s illness had subdued him during Sunday’s game. Nevertheless, he observed that the younger players were stepping up, gaining valuable experience, and playing confidently, which he believes will benefit the team’s future.