Kiwoom’s trade with LG has implications for Samsung.
On the morning of the 29th, Kiwoom received infielder Lee Ju-hyung, pitcher Kim Dong-gyu, and a first-round draft pick in the 2024 rookie draft from LG, and sent pitcher Choi Won-tae to LG.
However, Choi Won-tae had been announced as the starting pitcher for the Gocheok Samsung-Kiwoom game after the game on the 28th. After the trade was announced, Kiwoom replaced the starting pitcher with Kim Dong-hyuk and notified the KBO and Samsung.
Before the game against Kiwoom at the Gocheok Dome, Samsung manager Park Jin-man said, “I was surprised. When I first saw the message that the starter was replaced, I thought it was an injury. I thought it was because of an injury, but after a while, I was surprised to see that it was a trade.”
The opponent’s starting lineup could be a factor in the game. “Before we start the three-game series, we analyze the opponent’s starting pitchers (through power analysis) and prepare,” Park said. “Yesterday, Kim Dong-hyuk pitched, so I don’t think the hitters will be too confused or anything like that,” he added.
“I’m thinking (Ki) will have a bullpen day today because the starting pitcher suddenly changed. We used a lot of players yesterday, so we’ll have to keep that in mind as well.”
Samsung battled Kiwoom to a 5-5 draw in 12 extra innings the previous day.
Samsung removed pitcher Choi Ji-kwang from the first team roster and recalled right-hander Lee Seung-hyun to the first team. Choi has a lingering injury. “Choi Ji-kwang came down after throwing yesterday, so he’s not feeling well. He said his side is a little bit bad,” Park said.
“I think he had a little bit of trouble with his delivery, so he had to use a little bit more strength and a little bit more nerves, so his body was a little bit strained,” Park added.
Samsung will start Buchanan on the mound. He recently had to delay his start a few days due to gout symptoms and gave up four runs (three earned) in five innings against KT on April 23. Park said, “His body condition is fine now. I think he prepared well in the last game. I think he felt a little pressure after about 80 pitches. He is a player with a clear sense of responsibility as a first starter.”안전놀이터
Samsung’s starting lineup is Kim Hyun-jun (center field), Kim Sung-yoon (right field), Koo Ja-uk (designated hitter), Kang Min-ho (catcher), Pirela (left field), Kang Kang-ul (third base), Lee Jae-hyun (shortstop), Kim Dong-jin (second base), and Ryu Ji-hyuk (first base).