Daegu:Kia Tigers manager Lee Bum-ho has predicted a tightly contested postseason series against the Samsung Lions, highlighting the potential for low-scoring games in their Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) matchup.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the two teams are set to face off in the best-of-five second round, which was initially scheduled to begin on Sunday afternoon in Daegu but was postponed to 630 p.m. Monday due to rain. The pitching lineup remains unchanged, with Chris Paddack starting for the Lions and James Naile for the Tigers at Daegu Samsung Lions Park.

In their previous series, the Tigers defeated the 2025 Korean Series champions LG Twins, scoring a total of 24 runs, including 13 in the decisive Game 3. Despite their recent offensive prowess, Lee emphasized the importance of pitching in the upcoming games and anticipated a series dominated by strong pitching performances.

Lee also noted the challenge posed by the Lions' left-handed batters, who excel against same-handed pitchers. This factor complicates the bullpen strategy for the Tigers, with Kwak Do-gyu and Lee Eui-lee as their primary left-handed relievers. Lee expressed the need to strategically use right-handed pitchers to counter some of the Lions' left-handed hitters.

The manager concluded that the rainout could ultimately benefit the victorious team by providing additional rest, which could be crucial in such a tightly contested series.