'100 billion won FA' Kang Baek-ho's defensive contribution is 'zero,' "Next year..." Manager Kim promises a turnaround by 2027 [Suwon Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

"When other players need support, stepping in to fill that role is essential for everyone."

This reflects Manager Kim Kyung-moon's (68) thoughts on Hanwha Eagles' 100 billion won free agent Kang Baek-ho (27). There are expectations that he may see defensive action next season.

Manager Kim Kyung-moon told reporters ahead of the away game against KT Wiz at Suwon KT Wiz Park on the 2nd, "It seems Kang Baek-ho will finish this season as a designated hitter."

However, the situation could change next year. Manager Kim stated, "After this season ends, it will be necessary for both sides to step in when other players face fatigue," while adding, "That is a topic for next year."

Hanwha finished last year's Korean Series as runners-up after appearing for the first time in 19 years, and Manager Kim Kyung-moon emphasized the need to strengthen the lineup at that time.

During the stove league period, Hanwha moved quickly, signing Kang Baek-ho to a four-year contract worth up to 100 billion won. While it is clear that Kang Baek-ho is a hitter worthy of such an investment, expecting significant defensive contributions was difficult. Consequently, some voices raised concerns about the amount being excessive.

Kang Baek-ho led the league in RBIs through the mid-season but has hit just .202 in the second half. He certainly did not maintain the powerful performance he showed in the first half (.313). Nevertheless, contrary to pre-season concerns, his 100 billion won investment does not appear to be an overpayment. In 103 games, he posted a .286 batting average (114 hits in 399 at-bats), 28 home runs, and 97 RBIs, particularly demonstrating clutch hitting instincts with a .364 batting average in scoring position.

With more than 30 games remaining, his 28 home runs are the most by a Hanwha hitter since Noh Si-hwan in the 2020s. He is on pace to surpass Noh Si-hwan's records of 31 home runs in 2023 and 32 home runs in 2025.

Kang Baek-ho, who won Rookie of the Year with 29 home runs in his debut season, has experienced some ups and downs over recent seasons. While psychological factors played a role, the process of attempting to secure a defensive position again—such as returning to catcher after high school—also disrupted his batting focus. It is true that utilizing him as a designated hitter to concentrate on batting appears to be the best way to maximize his value.

However, increasing his utility as a defender will undoubtedly provide significant help over the long season. Manager Kim emphasized this point. Kang Baek-ho has experience playing both outfield and infield defense. While expecting much from his defensive abilities may be unrealistic, if he can occasionally take the field depending on team circumstances, it could offer considerable assistance in managing player positions.

Choi Hyung-woo, who returned to his former team this season, serves as a good example. Choi, a two-time consecutive designated hitter Golden Glove winner and the oldest player in professional baseball, played 5 games in the outfield totaling 37 innings of defensive work this season. As the season progresses, gaps may develop at specific positions, and having additional options to fill those gaps provides invaluable flexibility.

However, the timing of "next year" is somewhat coincidental. Manager Kim Kyung-moon's contract with Hanwha expires at the end of this season. While a re-signing is possible, the team's poor performance this season makes it uncertain. If the manager is replaced, Kang Baek-ho's defensive utilization plan would inevitably need to change as well.

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*This content was translated by AI.