"We have always overcome difficult times" — Manager Park Jin-man sends "faith" in Samsung's resilience despite a painful comeback loss

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

The Samsung Lions suffered a painful comeback loss due to defensive errors and bullpen struggles in the latter half of the game, resetting the series to an even score. However, Manager Park Jin-man, standing at the brink, expressed unwavering trust in his players rather than self-blame, vowing to win the decisive Game 5.

Samsung allowed a painful comeback loss in their away Game 4 against the KIA Tigers at Gwangju KIA Champions Field on the 30th. As a result, the series record between the two teams is now tied at two wins and two losses.

Despite the disappointing comeback loss, starting pitcher Chris Fiddick's performance shone. Overcoming the burden of pitching after only three days of rest and his historical struggles against KIA, Fiddick delivered an all-out effort, allowing one run over 5⅓ innings. However, defensive focus wavered in the latter half of the game, leading to a critical error, and the bullpen also failed to prevent runs from being scored, unable to hold onto the lead. The lineup also failed to deliver at crucial moments, ultimately resulting in a loss.

At the threshold of advancing to the Korea Series, the team suffered a painful blow that could dampen morale. However, Manager Park Jin-man, who appeared for the official post-game interview, instead highlighted the players' resilience.

When asked about a message he would leave for his players, Manager Park emphasized, "We have always overcome difficult times well. That was the case during the regular season as well, and over the past two years of postseason play, we were evaluated as being inferior to our opponents, but we overcame it all." He continued, "Our players are well aware of this point and have sufficiently overcome crises in the past. If they rest well tomorrow and firm up their mindset, I believe we can rise with a better performance in Game 5," revealing strong confidence.

He also did not forget to mention veteran catcher Kang Min-ho, who is playing through injury. Kang Min-ho had also drawn attention for his awkward stance while batting. Manager Park Jin-man stated, "Kang Min-ho has a very strong will to play despite being in an uncomfortable physical state," adding, "There are no issues with throwing in defensive plays such as fielding throws, but it seems he only feels pain or discomfort when batting. Still, he hit two hits today," praising the veteran's sense of responsibility. He added, "We will rest him for a day tomorrow to carefully check his physical condition again before making a final decision on his participation in Game 5."

Now, only one last match remains with no room for retreat. After a day of rest, Samsung will play the fateful Game 5 at their home ground, Daegu Samsung Lions Park, at 2 p.m. on November 1. Ace pitcher Ariel Hurdado will face off against KIA's Adam Ottavino in another starting duel to compete for the final ticket to the Korea Series.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original