2017 Korean Series MVP Yang Hyeon-jong to Start for Tigers in Potential 2024 Title Clincher

GWANGJU: Kia Tigers' veteran pitcher Yang Hyeon-jong, the 2017 Korean Series MVP, is set to start in a crucial Game 5 of the Korean Series against the Lions at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field. The Tigers, leading the series 3-1, are on the brink of securing their 12th title and first since 2017. According to Yonhap News Agency, Yang, who played a pivotal role in the Tigers' 2017 championship run, will be taking the mound with hopes of replicating his past success. In Game 2 of that year's series, Yang delivered a complete game shutout and later secured the final outs in the championship-clinching Game 5, earning him the MVP title. Although he is not a frontrunner for the MVP this time, his recent performance in Game 2, where he allowed two runs on eight hits in 5 1/3 innings, showcases his enduring skills. Yang, the KBO's all-time leader in strikeouts, remains a significant figure for the Tigers, having spent his entire 17-year career with the team. Facing a do-or-die scenario, the Lions will rely on left-hande r Lee Seung-hyun to keep their championship hopes alive. Despite primarily being used as a starter during the regular season, Lee has been utilized from the bullpen in the postseason. His brief appearance in the series opener saw him give up a run but also record three strikeouts. Lions manager Park Jin-man has emphasized a flexible pitching strategy, prepared to deploy multiple relievers early in the game to stave off elimination. The Lions aim to defy the odds and become only the second team in Korean Series history to overcome a 3-1 deficit. The 2013 Lions remain the only team to have achieved such a comeback. As both teams prepare for the pivotal matchup, all eyes will be on the seasoned Yang and the adaptable Lee to see who will rise to the occasion.