Seoul: The Samsung Lions have successfully re-signed two of their own free agent pitchers, right-handed relievers Kim Tae-hoon and Lee Seung-hyun, to multiyear contracts. The signings were announced Thursday, securing key bullpen pieces for the team's upcoming seasons.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Tae-hoon has agreed to a three-year contract with the option for a fourth year, valued at up to 2 billion won (approximately US$1.36 million). The 33-year-old pitcher will receive a 600 million won signing bonus and an annual salary of 300 million won. Additionally, Kim can earn up to 50 million won per year in performance incentives. Kim, who made his Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) debut in 2014 with the Nexen Heroes, joined the Lions in 2023. Last season, he appeared in a team-high 73 games, recording a 2-6 win-loss record, 19 holds, and a 4.48 ERA over 66 1/3 innings while striking out a career-best 74 batters.
Kim expressed his gratitude towards his teammates and emphasized his commitment to contributing to the team's success. "This deal means a lot to me," Kim stated. "I am especially grateful for my teammates playing defense behind me, because pitchers need all the help they can get from their fielders. I will try to help the team win the championship next season."
Lee Seung-hyun, another right-handed bullpen pitcher, has signed a two-year deal worth up to 600 million won. The contract includes a 200 million won signing bonus and an annual salary of 150 million won, with an additional 50 million won available in incentives each season. Lee began his KBO career with the LG Twins in 2015 before joining the Lions in 2017. This year, he pitched in 42 games, achieving a 2-1 record, 11 holds, and a 6.31 ERA in 35 2/3 innings. Over the last three seasons, Lee ranks third among Lions pitchers with 102 appearances.
Lee expressed his honor to continue playing with the Lions and acknowledged his role as a leader for younger teammates. "I've spent most of my career with the Samsung Lions and I am honored to have a chance to play even longer here," Lee said. "I've reached a point in my career where I have to be a leader for younger teammates. I will do whatever the team needs to do and work as hard as I can."
With these signings, the Lions have seven players remaining unsigned on the open market this winter. This list includes notable players such as former Hanwha Eagles outfielder Son Ah-seop, ex-Lions catcher Kang Min-ho, ex-Kia Tigers reliever Cho Sang-woo, and former KT Wiz infielder Hwang Jae-gyun.