Samsung Lions Defeat SSG Landers 7-3 In Thrilling Match

The Samsung Lions celebrated a triumphant victory on April 8, 2025, defeating the SSG Landers 7-3 at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. This win not only marked an impressive performance but also propelled the Lions to second place in the KBO League standings.

In front of a lively crowd, the Lions showcased their offensive prowess, with all nine starting hitters recording at least one hit. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as it marked the third time this season that every starting player contributed offensively, a feat that has only occurred 1,128 times in KBO history.

The game kicked off with a strong start by the Lions, who scored two runs in the first inning. Lee Jae-hyun and Kim Young-woong each had hits that set the stage for Kang Min-ho, who delivered a clutch two-RBI hit to put the Lions ahead early.

SSG Landers attempted to respond, narrowing the gap with a run in the third inning. Choi Ji-hoon led off with a hit, followed by a stolen base, setting up a scoring opportunity that was capitalized on by Han Yoo-seom's groundout. However, the Lions quickly regained momentum in the fourth inning with Park Byung-ho stepping up to the plate.

Park, the designated hitter, hit a magnificent solo home run off SSG's starting pitcher Song Young-jin in the fourth inning. The ball traveled an impressive 110 meters and was clocked at a launch speed of 157 km/h, extending the Lions' lead to 3-1. This marked Park's fifth home run of the season, tying him for the league lead alongside Patrick Weizdom of the KIA Tigers and Austin Dean of the LG Twins.

The Lions' offensive display didn't stop there. In the sixth inning, they exploded for four more runs, effectively sealing the game. After Koo Ja-wook, who had been struggling with a batting average of just .173, finally broke his hitless streak with a single, Ryu Ji-hyeok followed up with another hit that brought Koo home. Kim Heon-gon then added a two-run hit, and the Lions found themselves leading 7-2.

SSG managed to add a consolation run in the eighth inning with a solo home run from Lee Ji-young, but it was too little, too late. The Lions' starting pitcher, Choi Won-tae, earned his second win of the season, pitching five innings while allowing six hits, two earned runs, and five walks. Despite his high pitch count, Choi's performance was crucial in keeping the Landers' offense at bay.

Samsung’s manager, Park Jin-man, praised his team's effort, stating, "Choi Won-tae showed his worth by pitching until the fifth inning. The contributions from Kim Young-woong and Kang Min-ho were vital to our victory." His comments reflected the team's collective effort and resilience throughout the game.

With this victory, the Samsung Lions improved their season record to 9 wins and 5 losses, while the SSG Landers fell to 7 wins and 4 losses, ending their three-game winning streak. The Lions' offensive strength has been a highlight of their season thus far, leading the league in runs scored, RBIs, slugging percentage, and home runs.

Looking ahead, the Samsung Lions are set to face the SSG Landers again on April 9, 2025, at the same venue, as they aim to continue their winning ways and solidify their position in the standings. The upcoming match promises to be another exciting chapter in this ongoing rivalry.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Park Byung-ho, who is not only leading the home run race but also playing a pivotal role in the Lions' success. His powerful bat and leadership in the lineup will be crucial as the Lions look to maintain their momentum and challenge for the top spot in the league.