'Decision to part ways with Davidson' made by Lee Ho-jun: "We won, but it was moving → A replacement foreign player will likely join next week"

*This content was translated by AI.

As NC Dinos decided to part ways with foreign hitter Matt Davidson (35), manager Lee Ho-jun (50) shared his feelings after the farewell game and expressed honest expectations for signing a new foreign hitter.

Speaking to StarNews on the 27th ahead of the Kiwoom Heroes game, manager Lee Ho-jun reflected on the team's atmosphere immediately after Davidson's farewell game the previous day (the 26th). Although NC secured a dramatic 11-4 victory, the entire team was visibly moved by the parting from their beloved Davidson.

Responding to StarNews's question, "It was a sad victory," Lee Ho-jun said, "We won, yet everyone was crying. Even as the manager, I honestly felt moved myself." He added, "When the broadcast cameras showed the players crying, it was quite moving," revealing the bittersweet yet touching emotions of that moment.

With the decision to release Davidson made, attention now naturally turns to when the replacement foreign hitter will join. The club appears to be moving urgently to minimize the gap. Blaine Crim (29), a first baseman recently released by the Texas Rangers, is being mentioned as a potential candidate. NC has not denied being among the strong contenders.

Manager Lee Ho-jun also stated, "The candidate pool is already finalized, and there are a few strong players among them. However, we can only make an announcement once a contract is officially signed, so we cannot say more at this stage. Our team did not announce Davidson on waivers without having a replacement ready," hinting that contract finalization is underway.

Regarding the timing of the new foreign hitter's arrival, manager Lee Ho-jun said, "The club is already somewhat prepared and is moving quickly. However, since there are still final steps to complete, I cannot yet say definitively that 'this player is coming.' Although I haven't been told an exact arrival date, I believe he will join next week," he said with a smile.

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*This content was translated by AI.