“I think An Woo-jin has gotten better this year.”
KT Wiz coach Lee Kang-cheol said in an interview before the game with Kiwoom Heroes of the ‘2023 Shinhan Bank SOL KBO League’ held at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul on the 26th, He talked about starting pitcher Ahn Woo-jin.
On the 25th, Ahn Woo-jin won a no-run victory with 7 innings, 1 hit, 1 walk, and 7 strikeouts. He continued the no-hit, no-run until the 6th inning, and in the 7th inning, he prevented the 1st and 3rd base crises without conceding, leading Kiwoom to a 1-0 victory. From KT’s point of view, it was regrettable that Moon Sang-cheol’s squeeze bunt from 1st, 1st and 3rd base failed.
Coach Lee Kang-cheol, who explained the reason for ordering the squeeze bunt, said, “I thought it would be difficult to hit after seeing the swing of the first pitch.” I was in a situation where I had to do something. I gave a safety squeeze sign, but the ball hit the ball went too hard in front of the pitcher. It’s not easy to bunt a fastball with a speed of over 150 km/h.”
Director Lee Kang-cheol admired,안전놀이터 “I think Ahn Woo-jin has gotten better this year.” “My pitching has really improved. Last year, there were often situations in which the ball was shaken for about 1 or 2 innings, giving up runs while giving walks. But this year, there is no such thing. Yesterday, seeing him throw 158 km while pouring all his remaining strength, I felt that I now know how to play.”
KT will have Wes Benjamin as the starting pitcher on this day. “I wish I could do as much as Ahn Woo-jin. Or you can just throw as much as you did yesterday,” said manager Lee Kang-cheol, who laughed and said, “Benjamin has been hit since the opening game, but the ball is good. In our team right now, Benjamin is the tallest. Next to Benjamin is Joon Sohn, but the position is now vacant. That is why it is easy for Benjamin to win the game,” he emphasized the importance of Benjamin fighting hard.