"Re-evaluating Starting Pitcher Park Jeong-hoon's Role from Scratch → Aware of Decline in Velocity" Kiwoom Commander Makes Sudden Declaration

*This content was translated by AI.

Kiwoom Heroes is entering a period of deep deliberation regarding the role of left-handed pitcher Park Jeong-hoon (20). To address the noticeable decline in velocity since his transition to the starting rotation compared to his relief appearances, the team plans to undertake comprehensive adjustments, including a re-evaluation of his role.

Kiwoom manager Seol Jong-jin (53) met with reporters ahead of the KT Wiz game scheduled for the 31st at Seoul Gocheok Sky Dome, stating that he clearly recognizes the issue of Park Jeong-hoon's declining velocity in response to StarNews's inquiry from the previous day (the 30th).

Manager Seol said, "I also believe that Park Jeong-hoon is not throwing with the same velocity when he starts as he did when he came out of the bullpen," expressing strong agreement with surrounding concerns.

Actual pitching data clearly reflected this disappointment. According to the pitching analysis table provided by Kiwoom on the 30th, Park Jeong-hoon, who started that day, threw a total of 72 pitches. Among them, the two-seam fastball, which accounted for the largest portion (51 pitches), had a maximum velocity of 146 km/h and an average velocity of 142 km/h. The average velocity of his slider (16 pitches) also remained at around 131 km/h, failing to demonstrate the overpowering stuff that had previously dominated opposing lineups. This was a stark contrast to the mid-150s km/h velocity he had recorded in relief appearances. Ultimately, he was removed from the mound before completing three innings, having allowed five hits, four walks, and four earned runs over 2 1/3 innings. His batting average against on the 30th reached 0.417.

Consequently, the manager made the decision to immediately provide feedback and re-evaluate Park's role from the beginning. Manager Seol stated, "Tomorrow, when there is no game, we will meet with the coaching staff to investigate the cause of the velocity decline," and added, "We will likely need to discuss again whether he should return to the starting rotation or move to a middle relief role."

Regarding specific utilization plans, he further added, "Whether he should go back to being a middle reliever like before, pitching short stints of one to two innings to regain velocity, or maintain his role as a starting pitcher while working to increase velocity, will be decided after consultation." This appeared to be an intention to find the optimal position that can maximize Park Jeong-hoon's powerful stuff.

Kiwoom plans to finalize Park Jeong-hoon's ultimate role by considering the overall starting rotation schedule and rest periods in the future. Manager Seol said, "We will consult with the pitching coach, taking the starting rotation into account," and announced, "With An Woo-jin returning, we will make a final decision by next Tuesday."

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*This content was translated by AI.