DAEGU: The Kia Tigers are one win away from clinching their 12th South Korean baseball championship after a commanding 9-2 victory over the Samsung Lions in Game 4 of the Korean Series. The win, secured at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, has given the Tigers a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, positioning them for a potential title victory at home in Gwangju on Monday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Tigers’ triumph was powered by a standout performance from Kim Tae-gun, who hit a grand slam during a six-run third inning, and a strong outing by starting pitcher James Naile, who recorded seven strikeouts over 5 2/3 innings. With this victory, the Tigers are poised to capture their first championship since 2017 and continue their undefeated streak in Korean Series finals.
The Tigers’ dominance in the series is reflected in their historical record, having won all 11 of their previous finals appearances. The team has the opportunity to clinch the title at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field, a feat they have only ac
hieved once before, in 1987 against the Lions.
The 42nd edition of the Korean Series has seen only one team, the 2013 Lions, successfully rally from a 3-1 deficit. The Tigers, however, are determined to prevent a similar comeback by securing a decisive victory in the upcoming Game 5.
The game began with the Tigers scoring early against Lions’ starter Won Tae-in, who struggled to contain the opposition’s offense. After an early lead, the Tigers extended their advantage in the third inning, forcing Won out of the game due to a shoulder issue. Kim Tae-gun’s grand slam, the fifth in Korean Series history, highlighted the inning and cemented the Tigers’ commanding position.
James Naile’s efficient pitching limited the Lions’ opportunities, conceding only two runs over his tenure on the mound. The Tigers’ bullpen maintained the lead, closing the game with 3 1/3 innings of one-hit relief pitching.
As the series shifts to Gwangju, the Tigers are eager to conclude the championship on home turf, relying on their hi
storical success and strong team performance to secure another Korean Series title.