Daegu: The Samsung Lions secured a pivotal victory against the SSG Landers, winning 5-3 on Monday to position themselves one win away from advancing in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason. The game unfolded in front of a sellout crowd of 23,680 at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, with the Lions taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five first-round series.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Lions were propelled by their starter Won Tae-in, who allowed just one run over 6 2/3 innings on a rainy night. Their top three batters, Kim Ji-chan, Kim Seong-yoon, and Koo Ja-wook, each contributed two hits, combining for three RBIs and four runs. The Lions are now set to face the Landers again on Tuesday at the same venue, with a chance to clinch the series.

The series was tied at 1-1 before Monday's game. Historically, teams winning Game 3 after splitting the first two games have always won the series. The Lions took the lead in the third inning after being initially stifled by Landers' starter Drew Anderson, scoring three runs to set the tone.

In the fourth inning, the Landers managed to score a run, narrowing the gap to 3-1 with an RBI single from Choi Ji-hoon. However, the Lions extended their lead in the fifth inning, capitalizing on doubles from Kim Ji-chan and Kim Seong-yoon, alongside an RBI double from Kim Young-woong.

The Landers added drama in the ninth inning with a two-run homer by Ko Myeong-jun, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Lions' lead. The game included a 37-minute rain delay and was characterized by persistent showers.

Lions manager Park Jin-man praised Won Tae-in's contribution, emphasizing his willingness to pitch into the seventh inning despite a high pitch count. Park also highlighted the improved performance of the top lineup trio, which was crucial for the team's success.

Landers manager Lee Sung-yong acknowledged his team's struggle against Won Tae-in and expressed continued trust in his top hitters, despite their current slump.

As the series continues, the Lions will rely on right-hander Ariel Jurado, while the Landers will look to veteran left-hander Kim Kwang-hyun to keep their postseason hopes alive. Jurado, despite a strong regular season, has faced challenges in the postseason, whereas Kim brings significant postseason experience to the mound.