'Exclusive Leader' KT Gets Good News! Lee Kang-cheol Beaming: "Heo Kyung-min Returns Next Week → Ahn Hyun-min Will Take a Bit Longer"

*This content was translated by AI.

Even amid a string of injury setbacks, KT Wiz, which firmly holds the exclusive lead, is receiving reinforcements. The "magician corps," which had been holding on by their gums, is now gearing up for a "full-strength" lineup with the return of starting players. The imminent return of "key infielder" Heo Kyung-min (36) is among them.

KT manager Lee Kang-cheol provided updates on the recovery status of injured players ahead of the away game against Kiwoom Heroes at Seoul Gocheok Sky Dome on the 10th in the "2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League." The most welcome name is starting third baseman Heo Kyung-min.

Heo Kyung-min had been sidelined due to a left hamstring injury, but his condition has recently improved. Manager Lee stated, "Heo Kyung-min played in Futures League (2nd division) games yesterday and today. If there are no issues, we plan to register him with the first division team next week." He is expected to be able to play as early as the home game against SSG Landers on the 12th.

In fact, Heo Kyung-min started today's Futures League game against KIA Tigers as the second hitter and starting third baseman, preparing for his return to the first division. His return is expected to be a major boost for KT, which must continue its lead race. Additionally, infielder Ryu Hyun-in (26), who suffered a finger fracture, has recently had his bones fully healed and has begun batting practice using only one hand instead of both.

On the other hand, the return of key outfielder Ahn Hyun-min (23), who is currently sidelined with a right hamstring injury, is expected to take a bit more time. Manager Lee Kang-cheol took a cautious stance, saying, "(Ahn) Hyun-min will likely take a bit longer. I heard he will undergo a re-examination at the end of May."

A welcome face also returns to the mound. Bae Je-seong, who was sidelined with a shoulder injury during spring training, will take the mound as a starting pitcher for the first time this season today (the 10th). Manager Lee noted, "Bae Je-seong is scheduled to throw between 50 and 60 pitches today," effectively confirming his role as an opener. So Hyoung-jun's turn was postponed due to shoulder strain symptoms.

Despite the ongoing injury setbacks since the early part of the season, manager Lee Kang-cheol expressed gratitude to the squad that is still leading the league exclusively, while not lowering the "injury alert" level.

The manager analyzed, "We are in first place not just because of luck, but because the team's strength has improved compared to last season." He added, "This means the team's depth has improved. I truly feel that our overall strength has gotten better," expressing his satisfaction.

With news of the return of key players, all eyes are on how long KT Wiz, now ready to become even stronger, will maintain its status as the "exclusive leader."

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*This content was translated by AI.