'A Historic Milestone for a Citizen-Owned Club!' Ulsan Whales Secure KBO Futures League Southern Division Title in Debut Season, Writing New History

*This content was translated by AI.

The newly established and only citizen-owned baseball club, Ulsan Whales, has written new history by claiming the KBO Futures League Southern Division title in its debut season.

On the 16th, with Lotte Giants finishing second in the Southern Division losing to NC Dinos, Ulsan Whales secured first place in the Southern Division ahead of schedule, regardless of remaining regular-season results. Following their victory over kt Wiz at home on the 13th, which earned them a ticket to the championship semi-finals, they have now clinched the regular-season championship trophy as well.

In fact, Ulsan's start this season was not smooth. Immediately after the opening game, they suffered three consecutive losses against Lotte, making them acutely aware of the high barriers in professional baseball. However, marking their first-ever win on March 25, they went on a seven-game winning streak, turning the tide. Leveraging a solid balance between pitching and hitting, they became the first team in the league to reach 50 wins and held onto the top spot for an impressive 84 days from June 13 to September 5.

They also calmly navigated critical moments at the end of the season. Early this month, they suffered three consecutive losses during a three-game away series against Sangmu, dropping to second place. However, they immediately reclaimed first place by sweeping a three-game head-to-head series against second-place Lotte. The strong focus and resilience displayed in every crisis became the decisive driving force behind their debut-season championship.

Ulsan manager Jang Won-jin stated, "There were many concerns before the season began, but I am proud that the players overcame them excellently." He added, "Securing first place in the Southern Division was possible not only thanks to the team but also due to the passionate support from Ulsan citizens and fans. We will prepare thoroughly to write history by achieving an integrated championship title in our debut season during the remaining championship finals."

Club owner Kim Cheol-wook also said, "We congratulate the players for achieving valuable results despite difficult circumstances," and added, "We hope Ulsan Whales will establish itself as a club that gives dreams and hope to citizens."

Having claimed the regular-season title, Ulsan Whales now aims for the Futures League Championship. On the 22nd at 6:30 p.m., they will face Hanwha Eagles, the second-place team in the Northern Division, in a single decisive match for the championship semi-finals at their home stadium, Ulsan Munsu Baseball Stadium.

Tickets for the semi-final match went on sale starting at 2 p.m. on the 17th via Ticketlink and can also be purchased at the box office at Munsu Baseball Stadium on the day of the game.

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*This content was translated by AI.