As the sun rises over the Incheon SSG Landers Field, anticipation fills the air for the season opener of the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO League. The SSG Landers are set to face the Doosan Bears today, March 22, 2025, at 2 PM. However, the excitement also carries a tinge of disappointment as the team adjusts to the absence of its star player, Choi Jung, who is sidelined due to injury.
SSG manager Lee Soong-yong has revealed the starting lineup for today’s game, which includes Choi Ji-hoon in center field, Jung Joon-jae at second base, Guillermo Heredia in left field, Han Yu-seom as the designated hitter, Lee Ji-young catching, Park Seong-han at shortstop, Ha Jae-hoon in right field, Go Myung-joon at first base, and Park Ji-hwan as third baseman. The injury to Choi Jung has created a gap that Park Ji-hwan, 20, will now fill, marking a significant moment in his young career.
Choi Jung, a pivotal player for the Landers, sustained a Grade 1 hamstring strain during a practice game against the KIA Tigers on March 17. Following a couple of examinations earlier this week, the team confirmed his diagnosis and has since expressed hope regarding his recovery. With the right hamstring injury causing him to miss the opener and potentially more games, he is set to undergo a re-evaluation at the end of this month, leading to speculation about his return timeline.
Manager Lee reflected on Choi Jung’s importance to the team, stating, "Choi Jung is a player who accounts for over 50% of our team’s strength. It is unfortunate, but I will think positively." Lee emphasized that maintaining the team's performance without Choi will be crucial until he returns, which he anticipates will be in early to mid-April. Lee has reassured fans that, despite this setback, the team is poised to hold steady until Choi’s return.
During an emotional moment, Choi Jung approached manager Lee recently, apologizing for his inability to participate. Lee shared, "Choi Jung came to my room yesterday and apologized for not managing his body properly. I advised him to recover fully and return in optimal condition. Rushing back could lead to further injuries, and we want him to come back strong." This approach highlights Lee's commitment not only to the team's success but also to the wellbeing of his players.
Park Ji-hwan, who has prepared for this very opportunity throughout training camps, is now under the spotlight. Lee expressed his confidence in the young player, stating, "We are relying on Park Ji-hwan; I have confidence that he will perform well at third base." The pressure is high for the young infielder, but Lee’s belief in his abilities could give him the boost he needs to shine on this significant day.
Today’s game is not just about filling a slot in the lineup; it's about setting the tone for the season ahead. Fans at the sold-out SSG Landers Field, which has all 23,000 seats filled, are eager to see how the team performs in light of these challenges. The first game can set the momentum for the entire season, an aspect not lost on this season’s players.
The opening game will feature Drew Anderson as the starting pitcher, and with a powerful lineup, the team hopes to make quick work against the Doosan Bears. Manager Lee has crafted a strategy that prioritizes aggressive playmaking, with fast runners at the top of the order aiming to press the Bears' defense early.
He reiterated, “With Choi returning after recovery, we will regain our momentum. Until that time, it's vital for every player to step up and contribute.” Lee’s strategies may ultimately determine the level of success the team finds in these opening weeks of the season.
As the first pitch approaches, the SSG Landers are optimistic—an optimistic spirit shines through management and players alike. The absence of Choi Jung may cast a shadow, but the Landers are determined to rise to the occasion, showing resilience and commitment to maintaining their competitive edge.
Fans are hopeful that after a solid performance today, the winds of fortune will blow favorably toward their team, allowing them to seamlessly reintegrate Choi into a thriving lineup when he is fit again. It is an opening day of mixed emotions, but ultimately, one filled with the promise of emerging talent and the relentless spirit of competition.
As all eyes turn to the field, one thing is clear: the SSG Landers are ready to play ball, and every pitch counts in the pursuit of glory this season.
