"Yeom Kyung-yeop envisions a future for LG's infield where Moon Bo-kyung continues to get third base opportunities; the post-Moon Bo-kyung scenario has already begun"

*This content was translated by AI.

LG Twins manager Yeom Kyung-yeop (58) has included promising right-handed power hitter Moon Bo-kyung (23) in his post-Moon Bo-kyung (26) scenario, drawing attention.

Manager Yeom Kyung-yeop stated after the announcement of the final roster for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games representative team on the 11th, "I think (Moon) Jung-bin should play third base in the future. Of course, it would be good if (Moon) Bo-kyung continues at third base, but at some point Bo-kyung may need to play first base."

Moon Jung-bin is a promising right-handed power hitter who joined LG after graduating from Gada Middle School, Jamsil Middle School, and Seoul High School, selected in the 2nd round, 7th pick of the 2022 KBO Rookie Draft. Known for his leadership as a former captain of Seoul High School and his power-hitting ability that could translate to Jamsil Stadium, he is one of three LG power-hitting prospects being closely watched by manager Yeom Kyung-yeop. Manager Yeom recently identified Song Chan-ui (27), Lee Jae-won (27), and Moon Jung-bin as the three LG players capable of hitting home runs over the outfield fence at Jamsil Stadium, citing a large foul home run hit by Kim Jae-hwan (38, SSG Landers).

This year, he has shown his presence even with limited opportunities. Moon Jung-bin has appeared in 19 games, recording a batting average of 0.271 (48 at-bats, 13 hits), 3 home runs, 11 RBIs, an on-base percentage of 0.333, a slugging percentage of 0.563, and an OPS (on-base plus slugging) of 0.896. As his number of starts gradually increases, Moon Jung-bin has been mentioned as a candidate to fill the two-week gap that will occur when Moon Bo-kyung is selected for the Asian Games representative team in September.

Unlike Song Chan-ui and Lee Jae-won, who have received opportunities in the outfield, Moon Jung-bin has not had a fixed position so far. Since his debut, he has moved between corner outfield and infield without a set position, but this year he has played 11 games at first base (9 starts), 4 games at third base (3 starts), and 1 game as a substitute in left field.

When asked about the possibility of Moon Jung-bin playing third base, Manager Yeom said, "In the future, (Moon) Jung-bin could play alongside (Moon) Bo-kyung in the infield. We also need to manage Bo-kyung's physical condition, and I believe Jung-bin has the highest growth potential as a third baseman. This current investment is made with the future in mind."

He added, "Currently, Jung-bin's defense is not yet complete, so when we need to focus on defense with our top two starters out, (Koo) Bon-hyuk will play. When we need to focus on offense, we plan to give Jung-bin (third base) opportunities."

Underlying this statement is the team's commander's firm belief that healthy rebuilding requires results to follow. Contrary to public perception, Manager Yeom has stated that teams that consistently achieve results are actually better positioned to allow prospects to grow step by step. Manager Yeom answered, "When we have built up the number of wins we anticipated, (Moon) Jung-bin will get opportunities. If we find ourselves chasing, we will have to play tightly, and opportunities for players we need to develop will continue to decrease."

LG has already experienced an infield without Moon Bo-kyung. Currently, Koo Bon-hyuk (29) and Cheon Seong-ho (29) primarily receive opportunities at third base for LG. Manager Yeom said, "The gap left by (Moon) Bo-kyung will become an opportunity for other players. I think they have had some preparation during the month Bo-kyung was absent. This is a very important factor for our team," expressing expectations for the performances of replacement players.

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*This content was translated by AI.