'No home run foreign investor ousted → Season's first substitution': Kiwoom's goal is clear! "We brought in Hira for his power hitting → His position is..."

*This content was translated by AI.

Kiwoom Heroes made a bold move on the 18th by releasing foreign batter Trenton Brooks (31), who had gone hitless in home runs, and signing slugger Keston Hira (30), a former first-round pick in Major League Baseball. Manager Seol Jong-jin (53) also expressed high expectations for Hira's powerful "power hitting" and outlined plans to utilize him in multiple positions across both the infield and outfield.

Kiwoom's reason for selecting Hira was clear: to fill the lack of a "big hit" in the team's lineup. Speaking to reporters ahead of the SSG Landers game scheduled for the 19th at Gocheok Sky Dome, Manager Seol, when asked what aspect of Hira he expected most, immediately replied, "We are focusing heavily on his power hitting." This response clearly reflected the high expectations placed on Hira's power, who has hit 50 career home runs in Major League Baseball and 120 in the minor leagues.

Regarding the defensive position that has drawn attention, Manager Seol kept the possibilities broad. He stated, "We are considering first base, second base, and even the outfield," hinting at plans to utilize Hira in multiple positions. However, regarding specific assignments, he adopted a cautious stance, saying, "We will decide after seeing how he adapts and trains upon joining the team."

Hira is scheduled to arrive in Korea via Incheon International Airport on the 20th. Manager Seol noted that the issuance of the work visa is the key issue but added with a smile, "I'm glad we were able to get him into Korea quickly this time." Kiwoom, which had faced difficulties with work visa procedures when signing Kenny Rosenberg, plans to bring Hira in quickly and proceed with the necessary procedures.

Regarding concerns about Hira's game readiness, Manager Seol indicated that Hira would join the first division team directly without playing in the Futures League (minor league). He stated, "We need to check his batting and defense after observing his training, but I think he will likely be used directly in the first division without going to the Futures League." He further projected, "He could potentially play in the first division by the end of May. Depending on the visa situation, he should be able to play no later than early June."

Meanwhile, Kiwoom lined up against SSG's starting pitcher Takeda with the following batting order: Seon Geon-chang (second baseman), An Chi-hong (designated hitter), Im Byung-wook (right fielder), Choi Ju-hwan (first baseman), Im Ji-yeol (left fielder), Kim Woong-bin (third baseman), Kim Geon-hee (catcher), Kwon Hyun-bin (shortstop), and Park Ju-hong (center fielder). Left-handed pitcher Park Jeong-hoon will start on the mound.

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*This content was translated by AI.