“Childhood hero” Lee Seung-yeop’s “Win it!” encouragement moves Koo Ja-yuk: “I intend to respect him for life” [KS3 On-site]

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Moved by the heartfelt praise and encouragement from a “Lions legend” who was also his childhood hero, Koo Ja-yuk (33), captain of the Samsung Lions, responded with deep respect.

On the 6th, at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, Samsung defeated KT Wiz 5-1 in Game 3 of the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Korea Series (best-of-seven series) to take a 2-1 lead in the series. The decisive figure in this victory was Koo Ja-yuk, who played as captain and third-bat designated hitter. He led the team’s offense by hitting a two-run triple that completely shifted momentum during a tense moment of the game.

Before the game, a special guest stepped onto the field at Daegu Samsung Lions Park: former Doosan Bears manager Lee Seung-yeop (50), a symbol of Samsung and a “legend of Korean baseball.” Appearing as the ceremonial pitcher, former manager Lee took the mound to the roaring cheers of his former teammates and home fans in Daegu.

Immediately after the ceremonial pitch, former manager Lee spoke with on-site reporters, showering Koo Ja-yuk with praise. “It seems Koo Ja-yuk has truly become a real leader of the Lions,” said former manager Lee. “I felt it even when he was at Doosan, but he keeps growing. When I played alongside him, he had many shortcomings, but now he is showing the ability to lead the team. He has become a much bigger leader than I ever imagined.”

After the game, Koo Ja-yuk entered the post-game interview room and, upon hearing of his senior’s high praise, bowed deeply in emotion. “I saw from afar that you had also come for Game 2 of the Korea Series (held in Suwon), and we exchanged a nod,” Koo said. “After the game ended, I contacted you, and you told me to ‘definitely win.’” He continued, “You threw the ceremonial pitch before today’s game, and I received that good energy and positive message to fight hard as-is. In fact, even as I entered today’s game, I felt in my heart that Manager Lee Seung-yeop was watching.”

He then conveyed his sincere feelings toward his senior with a calm yet weighty tone. “It is a tremendous honor simply because the person I truly respect is watching, and he was the hero of my childhood,” Koo said. “However, I am still far from enough. I intend to respect him for life,” he added, bowing his head.

With the encouragement of “Win it” and the praise that he has “become a bigger leader” from the “legend of blue blood” fresh in his heart, captain Koo Ja-yuk now sets his sights solely on the Lions’ Korea Series championship trophy.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original