'May ERA 6.75 → the 1.23': The crisis-stricken closer has changed, with SSG's customized training method transforming Jo Byung-hyun

*This content was translated by AI.

SSG Landers closer Jo Byung-hyun (24) has undergone a dramatic transformation. Through data analysis, seamless communication on the field, and customized training solutions, he has rebounded from his struggles in May, posting a June ERA of 1.23.

Jo Byung-hyun struggled significantly throughout May, posting an ERA of 6.75. In 11 games during that period, he managed only one save and was saddled with a three-game losing streak. This was an alarming slump for the elite closer who had recorded 30 saves last year.

The club immediately launched a precise analysis utilizing data and biomechanical technology to help the player regain his form. The analysis revealed, fortunately, that the cause was not an injury but a "subtle change in pitching mechanics."

According to the club's data team, Jo Byung-hyun experienced a phenomenon where his body's rotation became dispersed as he tried to gather excessive force at the start of his pitching motion. As a result, he was unable to fully transfer that force forward to deliver the ball.

To address the issues identified by data and biomechanics, the club's "collaboration system," led by pitching coordinator Kyung Heon-ho, was quickly activated. Coach Kyung Heon-ho personally led in-depth interviews with the strength training coaches on the field and with Jo Byung-hyun himself, based on the precise analysis report. Through close communication among the on-field coaching staff, training experts, and the player, they finally found the optimal solution.

As a result, they identified the cause in the "band training" that has been continued since the Jo Byeong-hyeon-i (SVP) period and immediately implemented changes to the training method in the strength department, launching a revival operation. Previously, the focus was on increasing forward acceleration by holding the band behind and pushing forward; the revised solution involves moving the band's position forward to increase resistance. Through this, he is learning to control excessive force and correctly establish the direction of his forward pitching motion.

Jo Byung-hyun said, "Recently, I felt that my body was moving too far inward (cross step) when pitching, but thanks to the coaching staff and strength department communicating with me based on precise analysis, I was able to identify the clear cause." He added, "We immediately corrected the landing foot to face the catcher, and I am now clearly seeing the effects."

The club's strength coach, who helped derive this solution, explained, "Pitcher training involves both methods of accelerating force and resisting force from the front." He continued, "Because acceleration training was repeated previously, excessive force built up in the body. To improve this, we proposed a solution involving resistance exercises of the opposite nature, and under Coach Kyung Heon-ho's coordination, the player has diligently followed through, allowing for rapid correction." He expressed satisfaction with the progress.

As Jo Byung-hyun has recovered, the bullpen, which displayed its strongest power last year, is also gaining stability. Although the team currently sits in 9th place, the stabilization of the bullpen, led by Jo Byung-hyun, is expected to become an essential stepping stone for the team's rebound.

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*This content was translated by AI.