Oh Ji-hwan (33), the third-year captain of the professional baseball LG Twins, feels the weight of the armband becoming heavier in the 2024 season.
This is because this is the first season for LG, which achieved its first championship in 29 years since 1994, to firmly establish a dynasty era. 카지노사이트
To that extent, Oh Ji-hwan’s gaze is directed not only to where he is standing, but also to the entire field.
It is his captain’s responsibility to ensure that the infield and outfield, as well as the pitchers, work together as one.
Oh Ji-hwan, whom we met at Incheon International Airport before departing for spring camp on the 30th, said, “I have a lot of responsibility,” and added, “I will not be complacent and will work hard while looking back at what I can do and what my juniors and team need.”
At the same time, he shared the ‘big picture’ he was drawing.
First, he judged that the ‘defensive shift limit’ that will be applied starting this season is advantageous to LG Twins.
Shifting is a tactic that leaves one side empty and places an infielder between first and second base, or between third base and the shortstop, in order to completely block a batter who pulls.
Oh Ji-hwan’s basis lies in the LG center line, which boasts the strongest team among the 10 teams.
The center line, which includes shortstop Oh Ji-hwan, catcher Park Dong-won, second baseman Shin Min-jae, and center fielder Park Hae-min, boasts high competitiveness in offense and defense.
Ultimately, the analysis is that LG will have the advantage as the shift disappears and the defensive ability of each fielder becomes more important.
Oh Ji-hwan judged, “There are many friends on our team who have a wide defensive range.
In particular, Haemin, myself, Minjae, and Dongwon have a strong center line, so this will be an advantage.”
He also expressed confidence in the pitching staff, with closer Go Woo-seok advancing to MLB and bullpen Ham Deok-ju leaving due to injury.
Oh Ji-hwan said, “Last year’s 42 comeback wins were possible because the reserve players played their roles even if someone came out,” and assured, “You will be able to accurately see the ‘depth’ (thick player base) this season.”
He said, “I think this will have the positive effect of intensifying competition because there are many people who want to take the position (vacancy),” adding, “If (Yoo) Young-chan makes 30 saves, our chances of winning increase.
Deok-ju “Until I return, there are Kim Yu-young and Yun Ho-sol.”
He also did not forget his determination for himself.
This year is the first year of the ‘6-year, 12.4 billion won’ multi-year contract he agreed to with LG ahead of the 2023 season.
Oh Ji-hwan said, “My next plan is to play for two or three more years. I will not settle and work hard with the thought of playing all 144 games and 1,000 innings.”