*This content was translated by AI.
Ulsan Whales manager Jang Won-jin showered unrestrained praise on Choi Jib-man (35), a former major leaguer who has now firmly established himself as a key hitter for the team. What left Manager Jang in awe was not just his outstanding batting skills, but also Choi's "exceptional approachability and role as a mood-maker off the field," which completely won over the manager's heart. He is confident that any club at the upcoming rookie draft on the 21st would be eager to sign him.
Ahead of the Futures League away game against Lotte Giants at Sangdong Baseball Stadium in Gimhae City on the 10th, Manager Jang Won-jin met with StarNews and, when asked about the impact of Choi Jib-man's addition, immediately replied, "It's too good," while breaking into a bright smile.
Manager Jang said, "Not only does he have power in his batting, but his batting techniques, personal theories, and the foundations he has built are so precisely defined," adding that "in terms of ability, there is nothing more to say about him; he is an excellent player." He first praised Choi's major league-caliber skills.
However, what Manager Jang Won-jin repeatedly emphasized throughout the interview with admiration was Choi Jib-man's attitude and adaptability in areas beyond baseball. The "something" that captivated Manager Jang was precisely his "approachability and locker room leadership," which positively infuses the team.
Manager Jang stated, "He is a player who can adapt well to any team," noting that "he gets along seamlessly with much younger players without any barriers, and above all, he truly leads the team's atmosphere."
He continued, "Honestly, while baseball skills are important, in team sports, chemistry that allows a player to naturally blend into the squad and enliven the atmosphere is extremely crucial. Choi Jib-man performs that role exceptionally well. I am certain that any team that signs him will never regret it."
Graduating from Dongsan High School ahead of the 2010 season, Choi Jib-man spent over a decade in the United States, experiencing everything from minor league struggles to major league life, including numerous battles and aerial challenges. He played for the Seattle Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Tampa Bay Rays, Pittsburgh Pirates, San Diego Padres, and New York Mets. Although he played only in the minors during the 2024 season in the U.S., he spent a full 14 years on American soil.
After joining the Ulsan Whales this season, Choi Jib-man, as befits an experienced hitter, has already made a smooth transition to the Futures League. In 28 Futures League games, he posted solid statistics: a .328 batting average (58 at-bats, 19 hits), two home runs, and 12 RBIs. Notably, his OPS (on-base plus slugging), a ratio statistic, reached 0.918. His batting average over the last 10 games is also impressive at .375.
Having played in 525 major league games from the 2016 season through the 2023 season, Choi Jib-man not only anchors the lineup with his unique experience but also diligently looks after promising teammates throughout the dugout and training grounds, effectively fulfilling his role as a mood-maker for the Ulsan Whales.
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*This content was translated by AI.
