Gwangju: The Kia Tigers decisively defeated the Samsung Lions 8-3, advancing to a 2-0 lead in the Korean Series. This victory places them within reach of their first South Korean baseball title in seven years, following a potent offensive display and strong pitching performance.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Tigers overwhelmed Lions starter Hwang Dong-jae by scoring five runs on five hits in the first inning at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field. Kim Do-yeong, who had an outstanding regular season, contributed with a solo home run in the second inning. Yang Hyeon-jong, the 2017 Korean Series MVP, pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing eight hits and two runs, securing his second postseason win before a sellout crowd of 19,300.
Game 2 commenced shortly after the conclusion of the previously suspended Game 1, which the Tigers won 5-1. Initially halted due to rain while the Lions led 1-0, the Tigers rallied in the resumed game, scoring four runs in the seventh and another in the eighth to claim the opener and maintai
n momentum into the second game.
The series now shifts to Daegu Samsung Lions Park for Games 3 and 4 on Friday and Saturday. If necessary, the Tigers will host Games 5, 6, and 7 from next Monday to Wednesday. Historically, only two teams, the 2007 SK Wyverns and 2013 Lions, have overcome a 2-0 deficit to win the Korean Series, making the Tigers’ current lead significant in this 42nd edition of the championship.