The KIA Tigers are making strides to solidify their pitching lineup for the 2025 season, announcing key free agent signings and trades. Among those decisions is the three-year contract signed with pitcher Lim Ki-young, who has remained committed to the team throughout his career. According to KJ Daily, KIA confirmed the deal on November 21, which includes 300 million won for the signing bonus, 900 million won for annual salary, and additional performance options totaling 1.5 billion won.
Lim Ki-young, known for his role as both starter and reliever, expressed his dedication to the KIA Tigers, saying, "I never once thought of moving to another team. I'm thankful to the club for presenting good conditions and I'm happy to hear the passionate cheers of the KIA fans again." He has been with the team since joining them after military service and has contributed significantly to their success, including his role during the 2017 Korean Series which led to KIA's 11th championship title.
Despite a challenging 2024 season where he recorded 6 wins, 2 losses, and 2 holds with an ERA of 6.31, his overall KBO career stats include 51 wins, 59 losses, and 4 saves across 285 games, showcasing his consistency over 11 seasons. This season was marred by injuries and changing league rules, but KIA is optimistic about his potential resurgence for the upcoming season.
To complement Lim’s signing, KIA also made headlines by acquiring top bullpen pitcher Jo Sang-woo from the Kiwoom Heroes. This trade was accomplished with minimal loss of existing players, strengthening their pitching depth without suffering any significant setbacks. According to Financial News, KIA's strategic move included cash and draft picks with numbers carefully calculated to limit risks.
With Jo Sang-woo’s impressive stats and experience—including being one of the league's best relievers and participating at national level events—it appears KIA is gearing up for another strong contention. He has not only proved his worth during his time with Kiwoom but is expected to add significant value to KIA's bullpen, targeting solidify their 2025 pitching lineup.
KIA is eyeing the possibility of achieving their second consecutive championship title. Following their triumphant 2024 season, where they lifted the Korean Series trophy, the organization is committed to avoiding the pitfalls of previous seasons where post-championship runs resulted in disappointing outcomes. KIA's front office, led by GM Shim Jae-hak and manager Lee Beom-ho, is acutely aware of the necessity to maintain and bolster their squad.
While losing star pitcher Jang Hyun-sik to LG Twins during the free agency was a setback, KIA’s proactive strategies by trading for Jo and retaining Lim signal their serious ambitions for the 2025 season. With these acquisitions, the KIA Tigers hope to leverage market dynamics effectively, ensuring they remain competitive.
The upcoming season also entails focusing on other potential signings, including foreign hitter Patrick Wisdom, who KIA is reportedly close to finalizing negotiations. Apart from the elite pitchers, KIA is also targeting to retain internal free agent Seo Geon-chang, marking the last piece of their strategic lineup assembly. The discussions surrounding Seo's contract are still underway, but insiders suggest timelines will align following his return from honeymoon.
With spring training set to begin at the end of January at their camps across California and Okinawa, KIA is poised and prepared for another season. The incoming changes and retained key players will serve as the foundation for their goal to attain successive championships. KIA’s management is eager to see how these new strategies will translate to performance on the field, marking the 2025 season as one to watch.
The KIA Tigers’ savvy decisions during this offseason reflect their commitment and readiness to contend at the highest levels within the KBO League once more. Lim Ki-young’s leadership and new additions like Jo Sang-woo may very well prove pivotal as KIA chases after their V13 title ambitions, and all eyes will be on the Tigers as they prepare for what might be their most exciting season yet.
