Baseball’s Kiwoom Heroes manager Hong Won-ki (50) has revealed that he will continue to use infielder Kim Hye-sung, who recently requested a position change, as a second baseman in the new season .Hong met with reporters at Incheon International Airport ahead of his departure for Kiwoom’s spring training camp in Scottsdale, Arizona, U.S., on Sept. 29 and hinted that he has already made internal “traffic arrangements. When asked if Kim Hye-sung will remain at second base, Hong said, “That’s what I think,” adding, “When I go to the U.S., we will have a long conversation. We need to make her understand rather than convince her.” “Individuals are individuals, but I think we should prioritize the team. I think Kim Hye-sung understands that,” he added. Kim, who will be eligible to apply for the posting system (closed competitive bidding) if she plays this season, has already received the club’s consent to try out for the Major League Baseball (MLB).
With her excellent defense and quick feet, Kim is better suited to play shortstop than second base .However, Hong concluded that the team needed Kim to be a solid second baseman in order to form the best possible lineup.” I need to organize (the position) to a certain extent so that she can focus on it. I think I need to advise the player to organize in that area. “For this year’s Stobrigue, Kiwoom acquired veteran infielder Choi Joo-hwan through the second round of the draft .On how he will be utilized, Hong said, “Offense is the first priority. We expect a lot of RBIs, and a batting order that can produce a lot of RBIs is probably the best fit. Defensively, he can play first base, second base, and designated hitter.”
Kiwoom’s biggest concern this season is the starting lineup. Ace Ahn Woo-jin’s surgery and enlistment have left a gap, and veteran Jung Chan-heon is rehabbing from back surgery. For now, Ariel Hurtado and new foreign pitcher Enmanuel de Jesus have filled the two starting spots. Hong foresees an open competition for the remaining spots. “I expect to see a lot of new faces in the starting lineup. There will be several players competing for a starting spot,” he said, “including rookies .”He was coy about the possibility of Cho Sang-woo, who has returned from military service, getting a starting spot. Kiwoom will play a practice game on March 17 against the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are in Korea for the MLB World Tour Seoul Series. “I haven’t thought about it in detail yet,” Hong said, “but it’s an event that’s meant to spark a baseball boom, so we’ll have to 슬롯게이밍 prepare accordingly. I think it will be a great experience and motivation for the players.”