Seoul: The San Francisco Giants have expressed a strong interest in playing games in Seoul, especially with popular South Korean outfielder Lee Jung-hoo on their roster, the club's top executive announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Larry Baer, the president and CEO of the Giants, visited South Korea this week with key team officials, including baseball operations chief Buster Posey, general manager Zack Minisian, and manager Tony Vitello. Lee Jung-hoo and shortstop Willy Adames represented the Giants' players. During their stay, they engaged in various local activities, such as touring a traditional Korean market, sampling local cuisine, and hosting a clinic for high school players at Lee's alma mater, Whimoon High School.
At a joint press conference held at LG Champions Park in Icheon, Baer praised Lee's influence on both the Giants and Major League Baseball. Despite having only played two seasons in the major leagues, Lee has made a "very significant impact," according to Baer.
Baer emphasized the importance of the Giants' presence in South Korea due to their growing affinity for Lee. He stated, "We felt it was important for us, for the Giants organization, to show up in a robust way because of our affinity and our growing affection for Jung-hoo."
Baer also highlighted the business opportunities explored during the visit, noting meetings with Seoul-based companies about potential collaborations with the Giants and Major League Baseball. He mentioned the strong interest from Korean companies, which could soon be visible through advertisements at Oracle Park, the Giants' home stadium.
The Giants are eager to participate in international games, and South Korea is a top destination on their list. Baer explained the process of volunteering for international games and expressed the team's keen interest in playing in Seoul in the near future.
Buster Posey, a Giants legend, appreciated witnessing South Korea's passion for baseball firsthand. "As somebody who's loved baseball from the time I can remember, it's certainly special to be here in Korea and share that passion," he said.
Lee Jung-hoo expressed his gratitude for the warm reception from fans and the opportunity to create memorable experiences for players from his high school. Manager Tony Vitello, who recently joined the team, looked forward to working with Lee, acknowledging him as an integral part of the Giants' core.