'Tense 1-run lead in the bottom of the 9th with runners on first and third' Even so, Kim Tae-hyung said, "The setup pitchers showed great focus." [Busan]

*This content was translated by AI.

A tense situation in the bottom of the 9th with one out and runners on first and third, just one run behind. Kim Tae-hyung (59), manager of Lotte Giants, who secured the victory in this nail-biting game, praised his setup pitchers.

After defeating Kiwoom Heroes 3-2 at Sajik Stadium in Busan on the 4th, Manager Kim Tae-hyung stated through the team: "Rodriguez effectively shut down the opposing lineup over six innings with only two unearned runs allowed, fulfilling his role as the starting pitcher. The setup pitchers who followed — Lee Ee-mu-ra, Choi Jun-yong, and Kim Won-jung — maintained their focus even in tight game situations without allowing any additional runs, enabling us to secure the win."

Although Lotte won, it was an incredibly nerve-wracking game for their fans. Rodriguez threw 91 pitches through six innings before being replaced by the bullpen.

In the top of the 7th, Lee Ee-mu-ra allowed a single to Kim Geon-hee with one out but got Kim Tae-jin into a double play via a ground ball to shortstop, completing his mission without allowing any runs. Choi Jun-yong, who entered in the top of the 8th, also gave up an infield hit to Choo Jae-hyun with one out but struck out Davison and Ahn Chi-hong consecutively to maintain the lead.

The issue arose when closer Kim Won-jung took the mound in the top of the 9th. He allowed a single to Yeo Dong-wook on the left side, then gave up another single to Im Byung-wook with one out, putting Lotte in a tied situation with runners on first and third. However, he managed to escape by striking out Kim Geon-hee and inducing a fielder's choice ground ball from Kim Tae-jin, barely holding onto the victory.

Before the game, Manager Kim Tae-hyung revealed that he had personally taken the mound in the 9th inning of the Samsung Lions game on the 2nd to speak with Kim Won-jung. "His focus was slightly off, so I told him we need to concentrate even more," he said. Regarding the bullpen's recent struggles, he added, "The batters simply hit well. The pitchers themselves are throwing at their full capability."

Despite recording 10 hits and four walks, Lotte left 12 runners on base and managed only three runs. For home fans who stood up during every offensive inning to cheer passionately, the victory felt uneasy and unsettling. This is something the Lotte players must deeply reflect upon.

Manager Kim Tae-hyung never failed to express his sincere gratitude: "Even though it was a weekday, I truly appreciate all the fans who came to the ballpark and offered such enthusiastic support."

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*This content was translated by AI.