'With' LG's proposal politely declined, Ko Woo-seok delivers 2 innings, 3 strikeouts, scoreless performance! Back-to-back perfect outings in Triple-A Game 2 → MLB call-up on the horizon

*This content was translated by AI.

The decision to politely decline the return offer from his former team, LG Twins, and stay on the rough American soil is gradually proving to be the right choice. Ko Woo-seok (28, Toledo Mud Hens) has been dominating in Triple-A, marking the countdown to his entry into the Big Leagues.

Ko Woo-seok, who belongs to the Toledo Mud Hens, a Triple-A team under the Detroit Tigers, appeared in the 8th inning on the 13th (Korean time) in an away game against the Omaha Storm Chasers (under the Kansas City Royals) at Werner Park in Papillion, Nebraska. He allowed just 1 hit, recorded 3 strikeouts, and pitched a scoreless 2-inning performance, completely shutting down the opposing lineup.

Appearing as the team's fourth pitcher after Samsung Lions alumnus Connor Seibold in the bottom of the 8th, Ko Woo-seok built momentum by striking out the first batter, Cameron Misner, with a foul tip. He then struck out Drew Waters with a swinging strikeout and retired Brett Squires on a grounder, showcasing efficient pitching by retiring the side in just 14 pitches.

Ko Woo-seok also held the mound in the 9th, demonstrating his strikeout ability by striking out leadoff batter Josh Rojas. Although he allowed a single to Gavin Cross with two outs, he calmly retired Kevin Newman on a shortstop grounder, finishing the game without allowing a run. Since his promotion to Triple-A, he has not allowed a run in two consecutive games, following a scoreless 3-inning performance against the Memphis Redbirds (under the St. Louis Cardinals) on the 9th.

The significance of this outstanding performance is further heightened by Ko Woo-seok's firm determination to challenge. Recently, LG General Manager Cha Myung-seok personally visited the United States to check on Ko's condition and gauge his willingness to return. However, Ko Woo-seok politely conveyed his intention to stay in the U.S. and continue his challenge. From LG's perspective, they needed Ko Woo-seok as closer Yoo Young-chan was sidelined for the season due to injury. Nevertheless, Ko Woo-seok declined the offer and chose to pursue the possibility of a Major League call-up.

Ko Woo-seok has already proven that the stage is too narrow for him by posting 'unrealistic' statistics in Double-A: 2 saves in 8 games, 13 2/3 innings, 1 earned run, an ERA of 0.66, and a batting average against of 0.109. Instead of opting for a stable return to Korea, he has chosen the arduous life of the minor leagues, proving his value directly on the mound.

Since entering the U.S. in 2024, Ko Woo-seok experienced various trials, including being placed on designated for assignment (DFA) and traded while with San Diego and Miami. However, after joining Detroit, he has clearly transformed. He has regained his velocity from his prime years, and his control has improved even in critical situations, restoring the dignity of the 'KBO's top firefighter.' During the World Baseball Classic (WBC) held in March, he showcased top-tier velocity among South Korean pitchers, displaying a stable performance.

Considering the current bullpen situation of the Detroit Tigers and Ko Woo-seok's steep upward trajectory, expectations are growing that he will soon take the mound on the Major League field he has long dreamed of. For Ko Woo-seok, every game is a 'time of proof,' and his focus is now aimed solely at the final gate: a Major League call-up.

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*This content was translated by AI.