DAEGU: Following a powerful display that saw the Samsung Lions hit four home runs in a single game, manager Park Jin-man has chosen to preserve the team’s lineup for the next match in the ongoing Korean Series. Meanwhile, the Kia Tigers have decided to make strategic adjustments in their lineup.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Lions’ recent victory against the Kia Tigers in Game 3 of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) championship round marked a pivotal moment as the team tied the KBO record for most home runs in a postseason game. This win at Daegu Samsung Lions Park has reduced their series deficit to 2-1. Park Byung-ho and Lee Sung-gyu, who significantly contributed to the team’s home run tally, will maintain their positions in the lineup, marking the first time in eight postseason games that the Lions will use the same lineup consecutively.
In preparation for facing right-hander James Naile, who previously limited the Lions to a single run in Game 1, Park Jin-man expressed confidence in his team
‘s ability to improve their performance against Naile’s pitching strategy. The Lions have been particularly successful at their home stadium this postseason, hitting 12 home runs across three games.
On the pitching side, Park will rely on starter Won Tae-in to pitch extensively, given the team’s limited options for starting pitchers. Won is expected to throw between 100 to 110 pitches, with Park emphasizing the need for a long outing to conserve the bullpen for future games.
In contrast, the Tigers have opted to shuffle their lineup due to strategic considerations and player health. Designated hitter Choi Hyoung-woo will sit out the start due to lower back pain, with Na Sung-bum assuming his role. The Tigers have also made several positional changes, aiming to leverage favorable matchups against the Lions’ pitching.
Tigers manager Lee Bum-ho highlighted the need for strong infield defense and an extended start from Naile, who is now free from previous pitch count restrictions. Lee aims to preserve the bull
pen by allowing Naile to approach a 100-pitch count during the game.