On July 8, 2025, the SSG Landers faced off against the KT Wiz at Incheon SSG Landers Field in a game that experienced a weather-induced delay but still delivered some memorable moments. Despite the heavy rain that postponed the start of the game from its original 6:30 PM schedule to around 7:10 PM, fans were treated to an exciting performance by SSG’s veteran left-handed slugger Han Yu-seom.
The game’s start was uncertain for a while due to persistent rain showers that drenched the field just before 6:00 PM. An SSG team official noted that the match would commence at approximately 7:10 PM if the rain held off, but forecasts indicated the possibility of more rain even after 7:00 PM, keeping the situation fluid. Eventually, the grounds crew managed to prepare the field, allowing the game to begin later than planned.
As the game unfolded, all eyes were on Han Yu-seom, the 36-year-old power hitter who plays as the designated hitter for SSG. Han had been somewhat quiet recently, having not hit a home run in the three games following his ninth of the season on July 2 against the KIA Tigers in Gwangju. However, he made sure to break that slump at a crucial juncture.
In the sixth inning, with the score tied at 1-1 and runners on first with no outs, Han stepped up to the plate against KT’s right-handed bullpen pitcher Won Sang-hyun. On the second pitch, a changeup, Han delivered a powerful swing that sent the ball soaring over the right-field fence. The two-run homer traveled an impressive 125 meters, giving SSG a 3-1 lead and marking Han’s tenth home run of the season and the 207th of his career.
This milestone home run not only boosted SSG’s lead but also showcased Han’s ability to capitalize on critical moments, especially when the opposing pitcher made a mistake. It was a testament to his veteran savvy and clutch hitting, qualities that have made him a key figure in the SSG lineup over the years.
Meanwhile, the pitching matchup had initially been set to feature SSG’s ace Kim Gwang-hyun against KT’s Bae Je-seong, a duel that fans were eagerly anticipating. Although the rain delay disrupted the original schedule, both teams remained focused on the contest as the game progressed.
SSG’s lead after Han’s home run stood at 3-1 in the sixth inning, a scoreline that reflected the competitive nature of the matchup. The Landers looked to build on this momentum, while KT sought to claw back into the game despite the adverse weather conditions and the pressure of playing on the road.
Han Yu-seom’s performance on this rainy night in Incheon was a reminder of his enduring talent and importance to the SSG Landers. His ability to reach double digits in home runs for the season at this stage highlights his consistency and power-hitting prowess. With a career total of 207 home runs, Han continues to add to an impressive legacy in Korean baseball.
The delay caused by the weather added an extra layer of challenge for both teams, testing their preparedness and resilience. Yet, the players adapted, and the game proceeded with intensity and excitement, much to the delight of the fans who braved the uncertain conditions.
Looking ahead, SSG will aim to maintain their offensive spark and solid pitching performances as they navigate the rest of the season. For KT, the focus will be on overcoming setbacks and capitalizing on opportunities to turn games around, especially in tightly contested matchups like this one.
As the game continued beyond the sixth inning with SSG holding a 3-1 lead, the outcome remained undecided. Fans and analysts alike remained glued to the action, eager to see how the remainder of the contest would unfold under the lingering threat of rain and the pressure of a close scoreline.
In the unpredictable world of baseball, moments like Han Yu-seom’s timely home run illustrate how a single swing can shift momentum and influence the course of a game. Whether this lead holds or KT stages a comeback, the July 8 encounter will be remembered for its weather drama and the veteran slugger’s clutch performance.