*This content was translated by AI.
"I'll give it a try!"
Kim Dong-hyun (22), an outfielder and the Lotte Giants' "new power-hitting prospect," made a bold declaration befitting his nickname "Murakami of Sajik."
On the 21st, Kim Dong-hyun started as the designated hitter, batting eighth, in the KBO League Kiwoom Heroes' away game at Seoul Gocheok Sky Dome in the "2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League." He delivered a perfect performance with 2 hits in 2 at-bats (1 home run), 3 RBIs, 1 run scored, and 2 walks. His performance, which included four consecutive games with at least one on-base, helped Lotte secure a 6-3 victory and start the season with five consecutive wins.
In fact, Kim Dong-hyun was not originally included in the starting lineup for the day. There were twists and turns, including consideration for him to play left field during pre-game training, with his position ultimately changing to designated hitter. It appeared the lineup was adjusted due to batting practice conducted before the game. Kim's unusually powerful hits caught the eye of Kim Tae-hyung, the manager, and after discussions with batting coach Lee Byung-kyu, Kim was unexpectedly inserted into the starting lineup in place of Son Ho-young.
In the top of the second inning, Kim drew a walk to warm up. He exploded in the top of the fourth inning with the score 2-0, one out, and runners on second and third. He pulled a 145 km/h inside high fastball from Kiwoom starter Bae Dong-hyun without hesitation, and the ball soared over the right-field fence for a three-run home run (his second of the season). Later, Kim added a walk in the seventh inning and a single to right field with one out and runners on second in the ninth, completing a perfect performance.
In fact, when Kim Dong-hyun was called up to the first division on May 23, he showed sharp hitting, but defensive instability held him back. After committing a routine error on a pop fly in the LG game on May 28, his hitting pace slowed, and he was eventually sent down to the minor league.
But he did not hang his head. In the Futures League, Kim recharged his confidence with encouragement from manager Kim Yong-hee and the coaching staff. Kim said, "I had lost confidence in the minor league, but the manager and coaches told me not to stress too much about defense, which was a big help."
Thanks to his overwhelming power from his large frame, Kim is nicknamed "Murakami of Sajik," named after Munetaka Murakami of the Chicago White Sox, known as "the monster hitter produced by Japan." Kim smiled and said, "I'm grateful for the kind treatment," then added, "With advice from batting coach Jeong Gyeong-bae, I've been watching Murakami's home run videos on YouTube every day to study his timing and swing path."
The confidence and boldness typical of MZ generation players were evident in the interview. Regarding comparisons with Murakami, Kim stated, "I don't think I fall short in power compared to Murakami," showing strong pride. He also expressed confidence that he could clear the fence whenever given the opportunity. He said, "If I play full-time, I believe I can hit 20 home runs. If I can consistently play when my hitting is good, I think I'll hit many home runs."
Kim then raised his voice without hesitation, saying, "I'll try to hit 20 home runs. If I get to play full-time, I want to do that. I will also strive to consistently record double-digit home runs."
Last season, Lotte hit only 75 home runs, the lowest in the team's history. With the arrival of Kim Dong-hyun, an "MZ power hitter" who combines both skill and star potential, a bold declaration has been made. Fans are now eagerly anticipating whether he will clear the fences at Sajik Stadium and relieve Lotte's home run drought.
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*This content was translated by AI.
