The KIA Tigers are gearing up for the 2025 season with renewed enthusiasm and commitment as the defending champions of the KBO League. With the recent conclusion of the previous season, players are already setting their goals high, eager to continue their winning streak and improve upon their individual performances.
Leading the charge is pitcher 최지민, who expressed his excitement for the upcoming season during the KBO rookie orientation. He emphasized the importance of resilience and maintaining confidence, reflecting on his experiences from 2023, where he faced challenges but emerged as a stronger athlete. “I want to tell my juniors not to dwell on setbacks. If you keep doing what you love, things will get back on track,” said 최지민, who proudly represented his country at the Premier 12 tournament, clinching gold.
Looking back, 최지민 recalled the difficulties he experienced during his rookie year, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited his interactions. His tenacity proved fruitful as he became integral to the team's success, adding, “I hope to play even more influential games and contribute to another championship.” This ambition showcases the bold aspirations of KIA’s roster as they prepare for 2025.
Another key player, 박정우, who created history as the player who scored the final run of the league last season, is setting significant individual goals for 2025 as well. “I aim for 100 games and 50 hits this year,” he stated with determination. 박정우 has been diligently training since the KBO Finals, participating actively both physically and technically with fellow teammates, adapting to new strategies and skills. He remarked, “After the Korean Series, I only took two days off before jumping straight back to training. I want to capitalize on every opportunity to improve.”
박정우 faced considerable obstacles during last season, including encountering errors and overwhelming pressure, yet he thrived amid adversity, helping lead his team to victory. “While I was thrilled to hit the winning run, I still think about the mistakes I made throughout the season,” he explained. His focus on overcoming previous challenges suggests a promising path forward for the upcoming season.
On the pitching front, 정해영 has committed himself to refining his skills as the team's closer. Following the trade for fellow pitcher 조상우, he understands the increased competition and responsibility. “I feel I have to prove myself continually because the position isn’t guaranteed,” he reflected. Renowned for becoming the league's youngest closer to reach 100 saves, 정해영 expressed eagerness to upgrade his skills, stating, “This year, I want to develop my third pitch to perfect my arsenal.” His rigorous training regimen speaks loudly of his ambition as he pursues another successful season.
KIA's pitching staff must adapt to the absence of former pitching standout 장현식, which adds pressure. But with the new additions and the existing talent, they are hopeful about maintaining strong performances. 정해영 thanked the coaching staff’s support, crediting them for his recent successes and motivation. “The fact I got to the save king title last year felt surreal; I aspire to attend the award ceremony regularly moving forward. The added burden of being a champion is invigorated by the responsibility to maintain high expectations,” he noted.
Meanwhile, manager 이범호 is focused on reinforcing team cohesion and creating effective strategies to defend their title. He emphasizes player development and responsiveness to competition as pivotal elements for their success. “We’re aiming for continuity, improvement, and to keep the championship mentality across the board,” he claimed, underscoring the importance of unity within the team.
With aspirations of returning to the top of the KBO League, the KIA Tigers are committed to elevatinSet the bar higher for themselves. With players like 최지민, 박정우, and 정해영 leading the charge, their optimism reflects on and off the field during training sessions. Fans can look forward to witnessing another exciting season filled with resilience and relentless pursuit of excellence as they aim for the championship title once more.
It’s evident the KIA Tigers are not just interested in repeating their success; they are determined to learn, adapt, and excel – making the upcoming season one to watch.