Even Ryu Ji-hyuk's error didn't dampen the mood; "A truly great player has arrived," said Gu Ja-wook, who was also impressed by FedEx.

*This content was translated by AI.

Samsung Lions' captain and key outfielder Gu Ja-wook (33) praised new foreign pitcher Chris FedEx (30), who made a perfect debut, for his exceptional camaraderie and character.

On the 18th, Samsung Lions secured a decisive 5-0 victory over Lotte Giants in a home game at Daegu Samsung Lions Park during the '2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League'. With this win, Samsung extended their winning streak to three consecutive games, further solidifying their position at the top of the standings. They successfully widened the gap with second-place LG Twins to 2.5 games.

Batting third and starting as left fielder, Gu Ja-wook delivered a powerful performance with two hits in four at-bats, including one home run and two RBIs, leading his team to victory. In particular, in the bottom of the first inning with one out and runners on second base, he crushed an initial 141 km/h cutter from opposing starter Na Gyun-an. The ball soared over the center fielder's head for a massive 126-meter lead-off two-run home run (his ninth of the season), providing the perfect boost to new foreign pitcher FedEx's confidence.

After the game, Gu Ja-wook reflected on his home run: "Since it was FedEx's first day pitching, I wanted to help him feel more comfortable on the mound by scoring early, and it seems we got a great result." He expressed his warm support for his teammate.

Gu Ja-wook was moved not only by the home run but also by FedEx's mature response during the game. In the top of the 6th inning with Samsung leading 4-0, an error by infielder Ryu Ji-hyuk allowed Lotte's leadoff batter, Jo Min-young, to reach base on a ground ball to second base. However, FedEx managed to retire Son Seong-bin, Hwang Sung-bin, and Ko Seung-min without allowing any runs, ending the inning cleanly.

Regarding this, Gu Ja-wook said: "Today's game was great, but what really stood out was FedEx's attitude in preparing for the match and his effort to lift the mood even after Ryu Ji-hyuk made an error. It was truly impressive." He added, "It seems a truly excellent player has arrived, not just in skill but also in character."

Finally, Gu Ja-wook expressed strong pride in the team's current momentum, which is surging with him as the sole leader. He stated, "All players are performing well right now, and the team atmosphere is absolutely at its peak," emphasizing his hope that this positive energy would continue into the future.

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*This content was translated by AI.