Lim Jong-chan Hits First Home Run In 1066 Days

On March 23, 2025, Hanwha Eagles outfielder Lim Jong-chan marked a significant milestone in his career by hitting his first home run in 1066 days during a KBO League game against KT Wiz at Suwon KT Wiz Park. The game, part of the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League season, showcased Lim's resurgence as he launched a stunning solo home run, setting the tone for his team.

Competing against KT's ace, William Cuevas, Lim capitalized on a fastball thrown at 146 km/h. In the top of the third inning, he stepped up to the plate as Hanwha's leadoff hitter. With anticipation in the air, Lim connected perfectly, sending the ball soaring over the right-center field wall and traveling an impressive 120 meters. This remarkable hit not only indicated his readiness but also excited the Hanwha bench, with teammates celebrating as he rounded the bases.

This home run was particularly notable as it served as Lim's first of the 2025 season and the fifth of his career. Appearing in 138 games before this moment, he had struggled with a batting average of .183, managing only four home runs with 33 RBIs prior to this game. Despite these challenges, Hanwha’s manager, Kim Kyung-moon, had expressed confidence in Lim. Just a day before the game, Kim emphasized the need for strong performances from his outfielders and highlighted Lim as a key player moving forward.

“I don’t want to hear continued complaints about our outfield. We need our players to step up and show they can be strong in these positions,” Kim said, expressing his belief in Lim’s potential.

Lim, who was drafted in the 2020 rookie draft as the 28th overall pick, has faced his share of difficulties, including serving in the military during the 2022 season. After returning late in 2023, he found it challenging to gain consistent playing time, hitting just .158 in 24 games during the 2024 season. Yet he showcased an impressive performance in the spring camp and exhibition games, where he batted .348 in 23 at-bats and posted an OPS of .810, making a case for his position as a starting outfielder.

During the game against KT Wiz, Lim's home run gave Hanwha an early lead, with the score reaching 1-0 as they entered the fourth inning. The impact of Lim's hit resonated not just with the score but also with the energy of the crowd and his teammates, who celebrated this much-anticipated moment.

As Lim jogged back to the dugout, the atmosphere was electric, signaling a hopeful season ahead for the young player and his team. After such a long gap since his last home run on April 22, 2022, against SSG Landers, this was more than just a hit; it was a declaration of his recovery and his readiness to contribute to the team’s success.

Hanwha Eagles fans witnessed the home run as a reminder of Lim's potential and the hope for his continued growth in the league. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Lim to see if he can maintain this momentum and establish himself as a crucial player for the Eagles.