'Winning home run that toppled Jung Woo-ju' Kwon Hee-dong's debut cannon, coach Ho Bu-ji extremely satisfied: "The 8th-inning home run was decisive" [Changwon]

*This content was translated by AI.

He had been sidelined for over a month due to injury. Although he returned, he struggled with a batting average in the low .100s. At the moment the team needed him most, Kwon Hee-dong (36, NC Dinos) delivered the home run he had long awaited, deciding the game.

On the 27th, Kwon Hee-dong hit a go-ahead two-run home run in the bottom of the 8th inning during a 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League home game against the Hanwha Eagles at Changwon NC Park, leading his team to a 6-4 victory.

Kwon Hee-dong suffered a tear in his left internal oblique muscle early in the season and did not return to the field until the 8th. However, he subsequently fell into a severe slump at the plate.

NC, which had finally escaped a five-game losing streak, headed home. The previous day's game was called off due to rain, making this a crucial match where the outcome of their five-game home stand could significantly boost their standing.

Kwon Hee-dong started the game on the bench and was inserted as a defensive replacement for Lee Woo-seong in the bottom of the 5th. After the team took the lead, he struck out in his first at-bat in the 6th inning.

After allowing a comeback in the 7th, the offense tied the game with quick baserunning. In the bottom of the 8th, Hanwha brought in Jung Woo-ju.

With one out and a runner on first base, Kwon Hee-dong stepped up to the plate. Facing a 0-2 count, he powerfully connected with a 149 km/h fastball located low in the zone. The ball soared toward the left-field wall, traveling 120 meters for a go-ahead two-run home run.

Kwon Hee-dong, who had recorded a .161 batting average with no home runs in 14 games this season, hit a thrilling home run in his 15th game that secured a two-game winning streak for his team. With this single hit, the team moved into sole 8th place, surpassing the Lotte Giants who lost that day.

After the game, manager Lee Ho-jun immediately praised Kwon Hee-dong. "First, I want to commend our veteran players. They handled a difficult game well until the end," he said, adding, "Especially, Kwon Hee-dong's home run in the bottom of the 8th was the decisive moment of the game," giving a thumbs-up.

Natsuki Toda's role was also significant, holding the opposition to two runs over six innings. His three consecutive games of stable pitching relieved concerns about the NC starting rotation. Manager Lee stated, "Toda anchored the game as a starter and created a foundation for the team to withstand the overall flow. Although we were trailing until the late innings, he maintained focus and composure even in high-pressure moments, ultimately turning the game around."

It was also crucial that the team tied the game with focus in the bottom of the 7th. With one out, Kim Hyung-jun drew a walk, and substitute runner Choi Jeong-won advanced from first to third base on a fielder's choice error by the opponent. Later, a Kim Ju-won infield single scored the tying run, creating a comeback opportunity.

Manager Lee said, "The scene where the team tied the game in the bottom of the 7th was significant because it showed that the players did not give up on the game even in difficult circumstances. This momentum continued and led to Kwon Hee-dong's home run in the bottom of the 8th, making it a game that unfolded in that way."

Finally, he expressed gratitude to the fans who visited the stadium despite the bad weather. Manager Lee promised, "I thank the fans who came to Changwon NC Park today to offer great support. We will prepare well for tomorrow's game and repay you with a good performance."

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*This content was translated by AI.