On March 22, 2025, the Hanwha Eagles kicked off their season with a resounding 4-3 victory over the KT Wiz in the opening game of the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League regular season at Suwon KT Wiz Park.
This match marked Hanwha's first opening game victory in five years, since they triumphed over SK, now known as SSG Landers, back in 2020. The excitement was palpable in the stands as 18,700 spectators filled the stadium, eager to see how both teams would perform in this season opener.
Shim Woo-jun, a key player for Hanwha who transferred from KT before the season, played a pivotal role in the match. Batting as the ninth hitter and starting shortstop, he recorded one hit, one run, one RBI, one walk, and a stolen base in three at-bats. His performance was a significant factor in leading Hanwha to victory, especially against his former team that he had served with distinction since being drafted in 2014.
Shim had an impactful game, starting with a strong first appearance in the third inning, where he greeted fans with a nod while taking off his helmet. He reached base on a walk and successfully stole second, helping to score Hanwha's first run as Kim Tae-yeon delivered a timely hit.
Later in the game, as the tension rose, Shim’s moment came in the seventh inning. With two outs and a runner on second, he hit a crucial two-run double, turning the tide in favor of Hanwha and giving them a 3-2 lead. Following his hit, Shim raised his arms in celebration towards the Hanwha dugout, a gesture recognizing the supportive fans and marking his successful debut against his old club.
After his standout performance, Shim reflected positively on his day: "I wanted to celebrate more grandly, but I was also aware of the KT fans. Ultimately, I was satisfied with how I contributed." He rated his debut as a perfect score, expressing his intention to deliver consistent performances throughout the season.
Hanwha's victory was also supported by standout contributions from other players. In the eighth inning, Noh Si-hwan hit a solo home run, solidifying their lead and bringing additional excitement to the moment. Additionally, the Eagles displayed impressive defensive prowess throughout the match, with starting pitcher Cody Ponce managing to keep the KT lineup in check, allowing only two runs over five innings despite some initial struggles.
As the game progressed, Hanwha managed to balance aggressive base running and disciplined batting, successfully stealing four bases as they pressured the KT pitching staff. Coach Kim Kyung-moon lauded the team's effort, particularly highlighting the importance of the seventh inning as the turning point in the game with essential hits from both Shim and Hwang Young-mook.
Scheme and strategy played a significant role in the success of Hanwha's opening match. Demonstrating adaptability, they shifted momentum when needed and executed a solid defensive game to support their pitchers. It's this combination of strategic play and dynamic hitting that the players and fans hope will carry through the season.
KT did not go down without a fight, as they found opportunities to score early, led by their starting pitcher Wes Benjamin, who effectively held the Eagles to just one run over the six innings he pitched. However, attempts to expand on their scoring faltered as the Eagles tightened their defense.
Looking ahead, Hanwha's next matchup will see them take on KT again on March 23, where they hope to maintain their winning momentum. Both teams will adjust their strategies in anticipation of what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
As for Shim, his success against KT not only sets a promising tone for the season but also serves as a personal milestone, facing down his former teammates with a blend of respect and competitive spirit.
In summary, the 2025 season opener for the Hanwha Eagles exemplified a blend of strategic prowess and player performance, particularly the standout contributions from Shim Woo-jun, who decisively found his footing in this new phase of his career. This match not only marked a triumphant return to competitive play but also solidified Hanwha's aspirations for a successful season ahead.
