Daegu:Even as the Samsung Lions built a commanding 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven Korean Series on Saturday, manager Park Jin-man said this was no time to relax.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Lions defeated the KT Wiz 10-5 in Game 4 at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. A victory in Sunday's Game 5, also in Daegu, would secure their first championship since 2014. Despite winning three consecutive games and dominating the past two home games, Park emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, stating that the postseason can change with a single game.
Park is considering an all-hands-on-deck approach with his bullpen for the upcoming game. Despite this strategy, he did not confirm the availability of starting pitchers Chris Paddack and Ariel Jurado for the next match. In Saturday's game, Park Seung-kyu's performance stood out, with him going 3-for-4 and driving in three runs. However, manager Park highlighted reliever Lee Jae-hee as the game's MVP for extinguishing a potential rally by the Wiz in the fifth inning.
The Lions' Park Seung-kyu has emerged as a key player this postseason, boasting a .500 batting average in the Korean Series. Manager Park praised his performance, noting his significant contributions and spirited celebrations that boost team morale.
The KT Wiz initially scored but allowed six runs in the bottom of the first inning. Manager Lee Kang-chul remarked that starting pitcher Logan Allen's cautious approach against the Lions' middle lineup was costly. Lee also noted missed opportunities in the fifth inning and expressed concern over the team's pitching struggles, as the Wiz issued nine walks in the game, contributing to a series total of 21 walks.
Manager Lee acknowledged the team's lack of confidence and took responsibility for their current situation.