"Won Tae-in in the 9th? Today is different → All-or-nothing showdown..." Samsung declares 'all-out effort' for Game 5 [PO5 On-site]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

In a fateful final showdown with a ticket to the Korea Series on the line, the Samsung Lions will deploy all available resources. Even "domestic ace" Won Tae-in is being held in reserve in the bullpen, signaling an all-out effort.

Samsung will face the KIA Tigers in Game 5, the decisive match of the best-of-five 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Postseason Playoffs, on the 1st at Daegu Samsung Lions Park.

Manager Park Jin-man (50) met with reporters ahead of the game and cited securing an early lead as his top priority. "We must not be outmatched in the starting pitcher battle. If opportunities arise early, we need to boldly make our moves to score first and set the tone," he emphasized.

Veteran Kang Min-ho will continue to wear the catcher's mask. When asked about Kang Min-ho's condition, Manager Park stated, "His determination is strong. Even if he feels some discomfort, he will lead the team well as a catcher," adding that he is "a player who can fully fulfill his role on an important stage as a veteran," expressing strong confidence in him.

The most eye-catching aspect is the pitching strategy. Samsung has set up a desperate defense by keeping ace Won Tae-in ready in the bullpen. It appears Won Tae-in will be deployed immediately if the game reaches a critical midpoint or a tense moment where a lead must be protected after the starting pitcher's outing.

When asked whether Won Tae-in would take the mound in a 9th-inning save situation, Manager Park Jin-man declared an all-out effort: "Today will be different. Since this is the final Game 5, there is no room for error. Because it is a decisive showdown, all pitchers are prepared. If the situation calls for a bullpen appearance, we will deploy Won Tae-in at the critical moment."

Finally, as a message to the players for the final Game 5, he said, "In a short series, it is necessary to keep things simple rather than overthinking," urging them to "approach the game with energy and enjoyment without being intimidated, just as I have always said."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original