*This content was translated by AI.


The clock for 'veteran left-handed pitcher' Ko Hyo-jun (43, Ulsan Whales) runs backward. He is not merely enduring through experience; he has rewritten KBO League history by leading with velocity comparable to his prime, albeit in the Futures League. Now, his gaze turns once again toward the first division mound. He emphasized that under his contract, he is eligible for transfer to any KBO League team at any time.
Meeting Ko Hyo-jun at Ulsan Munsu Baseball Stadium on the 27th, he appeared brighter and healthier than usual. He shared his recent activities, saying, "Younger teammates often approach me first to ask about pitching mechanics and mental management. Whenever they notice areas where I lack, I proactively offer advice, and we are enjoying our time together."
Currently, Ko Hyo-jun is playing in the Futures League as a member of Ulsan. On the 11th, he became the winning pitcher in a Futures League match against NC Dinos, surpassing 'Hanwha Eagles legend' Song Jin-woo (60) to set a new record as the oldest winning pitcher across both the first and second divisions. Now, Ko Hyo-jun is looking to break the oldest record in the first division.
According to a Ulsan Whales official, two months after the Futures League opening date, KBO League first division teams are permitted to sign Ulsan players. By regulation, a maximum of five players can move from Ulsan to a KBO League team within a single season. Since the Futures League opened on March 20, transfers to other teams become possible starting May 20.
However, Ko Hyo-jun stated that this regulation does not apply to him. He said, "There is something I must earnestly request of the media. I am currently in a state where I can sign with any team immediately. The eligibility period for acquisition does not apply to me. If a team calls me even tomorrow, I am ready to step onto the first division mound." This is interpreted as a clause included in his contract with Ulsan allowing him to terminate the agreement if an offer from a first division team arises. Ko Hyo-jun added, "My phone is always on. I answer calls from unknown numbers, so please feel free to contact me anytime," actively making his case.
It is not merely a matter of enthusiasm. Ko Hyo-jun has proven his competitiveness based on objective metrics. He stated, "According to recent Trackman data, my maximum velocity reaches 147–148 km/h. My average velocity is maintained at 145–146 km/h. The actual velocity is about 2–3 km/h faster than what is displayed on the scoreboard. These figures are by no means inferior when compared to first division pitchers."
In fact, Ko Hyo-jun has posted respectable results in the Futures League this season, appearing in 12 games with 1 win, no losses, 4 holds, and an ERA of 1.98. On the 27th, during a Futures League home game against KIA Tigers, he recorded 1⅓ innings, allowing 1 hit and 1 run (unearned), contributing to his team's 2-1 victory.
Additionally, Ko Hyo-jun has shown deep interest in the recent moves of Choi Ji-man (35), who joined Ulsan Whales and has embarked on a new challenge to enter the Korean stage. He said, "Considering Choi Ji-man's career, it must have been a difficult decision. I felt his passion for baseball is truly remarkable. As a fellow player, I want to applaud him."
Ko Hyo-jun is also waiting for the next opportunity with a more serious mindset than ever before. He remarked, "In the past, I would say I would burn with fire on the mound, but now, as a veteran pitcher, I want to show myself 'as is.' I miss the adrenaline felt amidst the tension of the first division and the cheers of the spectators. There will surely be a team that needs my experience and skills."
Currently, the KBO League is engaged in a fierce battle for standings. It is widely assessed that each team will inevitably face challenges due to injuries and poor performance within their pitching staffs. As Ko Hyo-jun, who emphasizes himself as an 'immediate-ready asset' and dreams of joining the KBO League, continues his journey, the baseball world's attention is focused on him.

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*This content was translated by AI.












