78 billion won FA finally explodes! After a staggering 351 days, an arch at 'Jamsil'—and against FedEx no less—"I sincerely apologize to the fans..."

*This content was translated by AI.

Doosan Bears' infielder Yang Seok-hwan (35), part of the "78 billion won FA," finally launched his first home run of this season at his home stadium, Jamsil Stadium. And it came against Samsung Lions' foreign ace, Chris Fedek (30).

On the 16th, during a matchup against the Samsung Lions at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Songpa-gu, Seoul, Yang Seok-hwan activated the crucial home run power his team needed. He hit a solo shot in the bottom of the fourth inning with a 2-1 lead. This home run, his third of the season and one he hit in front of home fans, marks Jamsil's first taste of success for Yang after an incredible 351 days since September 30, 2025, against the LG Twins. In other words, it was the first arch he had created at Jamsil this season.

Even in terms of the overall game flow, this moment proved decisive. With one out and no runners on base in the bottom of the fourth inning, Yang Seok-hwan stepped into the batter's box and engaged Fedek in a full-count, seven-pitch battle. He unhesitatingly connected with Fedek's seventh pitch—a cutter clocked at 141 km/h—and sent the ball soaring at 163 km/h on a 34.4-degree trajectory, clearing the left-field wall with ease. It was a powerful home run covering a distance of 130 meters.

Ahead of the 2024 season, Yang Seok-hwan signed a major contract with Doosan worth up to 78 billion won (a signing bonus of 2 billion won, total salary over four years of 39 billion won, incentives of 600 million won, and an additional 1.3 billion won for the following two years). However, he has endured significant struggles this season, including a prolonged slump that required him to spend more than two months—from June 22 to September 3—rebuilding his form in the Futures League. Nevertheless, he returned to the first division on the 4th as the team entered a fierce battle for standings, and on the 16th, he silenced Jamsil's long drought by hitting against an opposing ace, proving his worth.

After the game, Yang Seok-hwan reflected on the moment of his home run: "The opposing pitcher was exceptionally strong, so I had many thoughts before the game," he said. "However, trying to be more aggressive at the plate led to a positive outcome."

He also openly discussed the struggles and concerns he faced regarding his batting performance. "Since results hadn't been good for some time, I felt it was essential to make changes," he explained. "Rather than fearing change, I sought new approaches and tried to find something that truly suited me. While major adjustments are difficult mid-season, I believe this is still a process of discovery."

He continued, "It's positive that I've hit home runs or driven in runs during critical situations since returning to the first division. With the team now engaged in an intense battle for standings, I will do my utmost to create more such moments moving forward," he vowed with determination.

Finally, Yang Seok-hwan did not forget the fans who had quietly supported him throughout his struggles. "I sincerely thank all the fans who have always cheered for me," he said, bowing deeply in gratitude.

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*This content was translated by AI.