*This content was translated by AI.
During his playing career, Park Jeong-bae (44) was the sturdy backbone of SK Wyverns (the predecessor of SSG Landers). With veteran leadership that inspired many, he is now active as a coach.
StarNews conducted interviews with heroes who were drafted in the rookie draft held in 2004, the year of its founding, to mark StarNews' 22nd anniversary.
Park Jeong-bae, who graduated from Gongju Middle-East Elementary School, Gongju Middle School, Gongju High School, and Hanyang University, was selected by Doosan Bears in the second round, 41st overall, of the 2005 rookie draft. After finishing the 2011 season, he left Doosan and joined SK ahead of the 2012 season. He then played as a relief pitcher for SK until the end of the 2019 season before declaring his retirement from active play in February 2020. His career statistics in the KBO League first division include 373 games played, 28 wins, 23 losses, 20 saves, 59 holds, and an ERA of 4.83.
Afterwards, he transformed into a coach. From the 2021 season through the 2022 season, he served as a bullpen coach for Kiwoom Heroes. Ahead of the 2023 season, he was called by Lee Seung-yeop, then manager of Doosan, and returned to his original team, Doosan. At Doosan, he worked as the first division's main pitching coach, earning high praise for his stable management. Having served as a coach at Doosan for three seasons until last season, he moved his base to KIA ahead of this season. He is currently cultivating promising players as KIA's second division pitching coach.
It was 2004, the year he was drafted as a rookie. What is the biggest difference from today? Coach Park pointed out changes in the second division development environment and coaching methods. He said, "The construction of dedicated training fields for the second division and active investment in development have noticeably improved training infrastructure compared to the past. Additionally, the coaching paradigm has shifted from unilaterally imposing on players to identifying each player's strengths and maximizing their potential."
Coach Park was loved by many fans during his playing career for his clean manners. Regarding the secret to his long-term activity, he recalled, "I had the confidence to complete every assigned training session without fail. However, simply working hard did not guarantee success. Injuries were also frequent. I ultimately concluded that physical strength was essential. I focused on physical conditioning such as weight training, and as my body changed, my skills improved accordingly." He continued, "Rather than obsessing over results, I devoted myself to what I could do immediately, and the effort to train my body to prevent injuries became the foundation for longevity. However, that does not mean I unilaterally impose my experiences on my younger teammates."
When asked about the virtues he emphasizes most to his young teammates, he cited "attitude toward others" and "diligence." Coach Park advised, "I always urge young players to treat people around them well. By showing a diligent and sincere attitude in daily life, when they face poor performance or crises, those around them can offer sincere help. Even if they make mistakes later, they must maintain a proper posture toward others both on and off the field so that their mistakes can be forgiven."
Regarding his principles for coaching players, he clearly stated that he prioritizes respecting each player's individuality and strengths. Coach Park said, "I allow players to fully display their innate abilities first, then gradually discuss areas for improvement or necessary corrections through dialogue. Rather than making drastic changes all at once based on a coach's standards, I focus on leveraging each player's unique strengths."
However, players cannot simply be left entirely to their own devices. Players whose growth has stagnated or who need change are treated differently. Coach Park stated, "Achieving results in the short term is not typical in baseball." He added, "These days, tracking data and video analysis systems are well established. We provide advice based on data to guide players to understand and accept it themselves." He further explained, "If there are deficiencies in intuition, we increase training volume and conduct repetitive practice. Additionally, depending on the club's system, we implement systematic management by placing them in intensive development groups."
Coach Park has already experienced coaching at three different clubs. He said, "Each club has its own unique system and development methods. Having experienced diverse environments allows me to incorporate good aspects and eliminate unnecessary ones, which becomes a great asset and advantage as a coach."
Which pitcher is Coach Park currently focusing on most in KIA's second division? Coach Park shared, "Ji Hyun-eun, who joined in the sixth round (60th overall) of the 2026 rookie draft, initially appeared ordinary but has significantly improved his game performance by pitching many innings as a key pitcher in the Futures League. However, as a rookie, we are carefully managing his pitch count and innings." He continued, "Left-handed pitcher Choi Yu-chan (2026 KIA eighth round, 80th overall) has good potential and works very hard. Reducing the gap between his good and bad performances is a future challenge," praising him.
Coach Park emphasized, "Players must experience the first division stage and use it as a stepping stone to work harder and grow, but achieving this all at once is not easy." He added, "Seeing players develop steadily brings me great satisfaction as a coach."
Finally, he expressed gratitude toward KIA fans: "While staying in Hampyeong, I personally felt the fans' intense passion and support. While the entire KBO League enjoys high popularity, the fervor of KIA fans is particularly remarkable." He continued, "Of course, it is true that sharp reactions from various online communities can sometimes be disappointing. However, seeing fans flock to Hampyeong Stadium every weekend gives me great strength. I hope they will offer more warm encouragement and support rather than excessive criticism or scolding."
Regarding future plans, he reaffirmed his resolve as a prepared coach. Coach Park said, "Opportunities are granted by the club. During my coaching career, I have experienced many things. I am still in the process of filling my shortcomings. Wherever I stand, I will make full preparations to fulfill my role," and concluded with greetings.
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*This content was translated by AI.
