"Only he wasn't smiling" Samsung names Choi Won-tae as Korea Series Game 1 starter → Won Tae-in's return to starting rotation becomes 'variable'

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

With the Samsung Lions having designated Choi Won-tae (29) as the starting pitcher for Game 1 of the Korea Series (KS), whether "domestic ace" Won Tae-in (26), who served in a key bullpen role during the Playoffs, will join the starting rotation has emerged as a critical variable in this series.

Samsung defeated the KIA Tigers 6-1 in Game 5 of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Postseason Playoffs, held on the 1st at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. With this victory, Samsung leads the series 3 games to 2 and has successfully advanced to the Korea Series. This marks Samsung's first appearance in the Korea Series since the 2024 season, a gap of two seasons. Samsung will face KT in Game 1 of the Korea Series at Suwon KT Wiz Park at 6:30 p.m. on the 3rd.

Currently, it is highly likely that Samsung's rotation plan involves their foreign pitchers taking responsibility for Games 2 and 3, as well as Games 5 and 6. If Samsung maintains the rotation used in the Playoffs, where three starting pitchers were employed, Chris Fiddick would start Game 2 and Ariel Hurdado Game 3, with both potentially covering Games 5 and 6 if the series extends. However, if Won Tae-in is fully reinstated as the starter for Game 4, the calculations for overall mound management, including the rest intervals for the foreign one-two punch, could become complex, deepening the coaching staff's deliberations.

In addition, Won Tae-in's regular season record against KT is a subject of careful review. This season, Won Tae-in appeared in five games against KT, recording a 1-3 win-loss record and an ERA of 3.25. It appears the team will consider both his head-to-head record, which lacked winning luck despite a solid ERA, and his pitching performance to determine his final role. His performance in the Playoffs against KIA is also noteworthy; he appeared in three games as a reliever, posting a 1-0 record with an ERA of 2.45.

Samsung Manager Park Jin-man also maintained a cautious stance regarding Won Tae-in's use as a starter. "I am currently deliberating. If we exclude Tae-in, the other three are prepared to start Games 1 through 3 of the (Korea) Series," said Manager Park. "We must first check Tae-in's physical condition according to the situation, and the player's own intent is also an important factor. Since there is still time, we will decide after consultation. The possibility of some changes remains open."

Meanwhile, a behind-the-scenes story was shared about Choi Won-tae, who bore a heavy sense of responsibility alone even amidst the joy of victory. Veteran catcher Kang Min-ho conveyed the team's atmosphere immediately after Game 5 of the Playoffs: "After the game ended, everyone was high-fiving and laughing in happiness, but only (Choi) Won-tae wasn't smiling." Kang Min-ho added, "There is no way back now. I pumped him up by telling him to just go for it," offering solid advice to comfort his junior who had taken on a major responsibility.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original