'Coach Capability' Measured by One-Run Games: Which Team Smiled? 1st Samsung-2nd KT→9th Hanwha-10th Lotte... 'Last-place' Kiwoom also 3 wins, 4 losses

*This content was translated by AI.

In baseball, one-run games are often evaluated as the 'coach's domain.' The bench's capability—such as pinch-hitting decisions in tight late-game situations, the timing of pitcher changes, and the execution of strategic plays—becomes a decisive variable that determines victory or defeat. As the 2026 KBO League season heads toward its midpoint, the fortunes of each team are sharply divided in these razor-thin one-run contests.

As of the 15th, with games ahead, the team showing the strongest performance in one-run games this season is the Samsung Lions. Samsung has achieved an overwhelming record of 9 wins and 2 losses (winning percentage 0.818) in 11 one-run situations this season, ranking first in this category. Leveraging incredible late-game concentration, they are playing baseball that knows how to win.

KT Wiz, leading the league, also secured a joint second-place position in one-run games with 7 wins and 3 losses (winning percentage 0.700). It is evaluated that their stable game management in crisis situations has been the driving force that placed the team at the top of the standings. SSG Landers also recorded the same record (7 wins, 3 losses), demonstrating their strong performance in clutch situations.

An interesting point is the indicator of Kiwoom Heroes, currently stuck in last place (10th) in the league. While Kiwoom's overall winning percentage is 14 wins, 25 losses, and 1 tie (0.359), they performed relatively well in one-run games with 3 wins and 4 losses (winning percentage 0.429), ranking 6th in this category. Although they are in the lower ranks due to a lack of team strength, they show that bench management and player concentration are yielding some results in tight, close games.

On the other hand, lower-ranked teams collapsed without overcoming the hurdle of one-run close games. Hanwha Eagles managed only 3 wins and 8 losses (winning percentage 0.273) in one-run games, remaining in 9th place. This is interpreted as being hampered by failed pitcher changes in close-game situations and a batting lineup that failed to deliver in decisive moments.

The most serious team in one-run games is the Lotte Giants. Lotte managed only 1 win (8 losses) in one-run games, with a winning percentage as low as 0.111, ranking last. They are suffering from a severe 'one-run phobia,' losing 9 out of 10 times they compete. This is analyzed as the decisive reason Lotte has been pushed down to 9th place, and it is also cited as a point where doubts are growing regarding the manager's game management ability.

Ultimately, the driving force in the standings race of a long season comes from 'the power to turn close games into victories.' With approximately 100 games remaining for each team, fans' eyes are now focused on each team's bench to see how the fortunes revealed in one-run games will affect the final season standings.

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*This content was translated by AI.