Hanwha Eagles Win Thrilling Season Opener Against KT Wiz

In a thrilling turnaround, the Hanwha Eagles clinched a victory against the KT Wiz in their opening game of the 2025 KBO season, showcasing their newfound vigor. The match, held at Suwon KT Wiz Park on March 22, 2025, ended with a score of 4-3, marking a significant win for the Eagles, as it was their first victory in an opening game since 2020 and their first in this time frame for March and April since 2009.

This match was a testament to Hanwha’s performance under the leadership of manager Kim Kyung-moon, bringing to an end a disheartening trend of opening game defeats that had stretched over the past four years. Following their last win during the 2020 season against the then-SK Wyverns, the team had struggled to find their footing in season openers. However, they turned the tide this year with a strong display of resilience and skill.

Hanwha's journey to victory began with some challenges as their starting pitcher, Cody Ponce, faced a shaky start. Despite allowing two runs in the first two innings, the team’s defense rose to the occasion. Notable performances from players like Kim Tae-yeon, who drove in a critical hit, and Ahn Chi-hong, provided support that limited Ponce's runs to just two and helped keep the game close.

As the game progressed, the adrenaline surged in the third inning when the Eagles started their comeback. It was Kim Tae-yeon’s timely hit that closed the gap and suggested that the momentum was beginning to shift. The anticipation built throughout the seventh inning when the Eagles executed a stunning rally that clinched the lead. After Cchae Eun-seong reached base, rookie Hwang Young-mook, upon substituting, hit a two-run double that tied the game at 3-3.

From there, Shim Woo-jun capitalized on the momentum, hitting a two-run decisive double that brought the Eagles ahead, marking an emotional moment for him as he faced his former team. His performance on the field mirrored the significance of his transfer to the Eagles, as he logged 1 RBI and 1 run.

The icing on the cake came from No Si-hwan, who electrified the crowd with a towering homer in the eighth inning. His massive shot, traveling 135 meters, established a comfortable lead for Hanwha and exemplified his role as a critical player for the team this season. In total, No Si-hwan recorded two hits during the game, contributing 1 run and further cementing his importance in the lineup.

However, KT didn’t back down without a fight. In the ninth inning, they attempted to close the deficit with a solo home run from Kim Sang-su, narrowing the score to 4-3. But Hanwha's closer, Joo Hyun-sang, held his ground. With the pressure mounting, he successfully navigated through the final innings without allowing any further runs, securing the Eagles’ triumphant victory.

Post-game, manager Kim Kyung-moon praised his players, noting, "Although it was the opening game of the regular season, I could see the players were nervous. But they had a solid performance without any mistakes, and I want to acknowledge their hard work." He particularly celebrated the pivotal moments, pointing out Hwang Young-mook's tying hit, Shim Woo-jun’s reversal hit, and No Si-hwan's powerful home run, highlighting their importance in the victory.

With this win, Hanwha will now look to extend their success in the ongoing series against KT. Ryan Weiss is set to take the mound for Hanwha in the next game on March 23, while KT’s William Cuevas will seek redemption for his team.

The Eagles' victory not only invigorates their season but also gives fans renewed hope as they aim to build on this momentum, presenting a much-improved version of the team they have been in recent seasons. As the excitement grows, players and fans alike are ready to embrace the challenge ahead.