*This content was translated by AI.
Ko Woo-seok (28), a reliable "bullpen support" for LG Twins, joined the team but did not take the mound even during an extra-inning battle that went until the 11th inning the previous day (5th). Despite not pitching on consecutive days, what was the real reason he didn't appear in such a critical moment? Manager Yeom Kyung-yeop (58) of LG openly explained the background.
Manager Yeom Kyung-yeop answered reporters' questions about why Ko Woo-seok did not pitch the previous day (5th) ahead of the home game against Samsung Lions at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul's Songpa District on the 6th, responding with his characteristic honesty.
When asked by reporters, "Didn't Ko Woo-seok say he wanted to go out?" Manager Yeom smiled and retorted, "Everyone has experienced jet lag before, right? You all know how it feels." He continued, "Actually, considering the 4th game was about jet lag adjustment, it wasn't even the right timing for him to pitch. Ko's physical condition wasn't great either. He said he felt 'floating.' However, since Son Ju-young had pitched three consecutive days and there was no closer available, we prepared him with the understanding that he would go out if needed."
In fact, Ko Woo-seok struggled with his physical condition even during his first appearance against Doosan on the 3rd after being registered in the first division. Immediately after his debut against Samsung on the 4th, he said, "Actually, I was extremely sleepy. I planned to cheer from the dugout until the end of the 4th game, but they told me to go home early. I'm planning to get plenty of rest and recover my body."
Given that he just returned after attempting a challenge in the United States, the team's manager determined that adjusting to jet lag and restoring his biological rhythm were top priorities. Manager Yeom stated, "He didn't stay in the U.S. for just a few days; he was there for a long time. Even ordinary people take four to five days to adjust after being abroad for a month. How much more would it be for a player? It's normal to rest well and recover until this weekend while adjusting to the time difference."
Manager Yeom also spoke about Ko Woo-seok's pitch repertoire developed during his time in the U.S. He said, "He calls it a slider, but by changing his grip, he can throw it at speeds of 148–149 km/h. In terms of speed alone, it is practically close to a high-velocity cutter," raising expectations for his improved performance.
So how will he be used today (6th)? Manager Yeom explained, "In save situations, closer Son Ju-young will pitch, while Ko Woo-seok will be deployed appropriately in the 7th or 8th inning depending on matchups, alongside John Kennedy." He added that both are ready to pitch today. "We always ask players about their condition. Actually, starting next week, our schedule will allow for some rest, so we plan to use him when needed."
<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>
*This content was translated by AI.
