GWANGJU: The Kia Tigers emerged victorious with a 5-1 win over the Samsung Lions in the opening game of the South Korean baseball championship series, following a seventh-inning rally. The game, initially suspended due to rain, resumed after 48 hours at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field in Gwangju, approximately 270 kilometers south of Seoul. According to Yonhap News Agency, the game had been halted on Monday night with the Lions leading 1-0 in the sixth inning. Kim Hun-gon had secured the lead for the Lions with a solo home run off Tigers' starter James Naile. However, upon resumption, the Tigers staged a comeback, capitalizing on missed opportunities by the Lions and scoring four runs in the seventh inning to seal the victory in the first postseason game suspension in Korea Baseball Organization history. The game was initially set to resume on Tuesday, with Game 2 taking place the same day, but adverse weather conditions led to a further postponement until Wednesday. Despite the historical trend where Game 1 wi nners have claimed the title in 72.5 percent of the Korean Series, the Lions remain hopeful, as recent champions have overcome losses in their opening games. Tigers' pitcher Jeon Sang-hyun played a pivotal role by preventing the Lions from scoring in the sixth inning. Lions' starter Won Tae-in had initially dominated with five shutout innings before the rain delay, but the Tigers capitalized on relief pitchers' mistakes, including wild pitches by Lim Chang-min that allowed crucial runs in the seventh inning. The Tigers' bullpen maintained the lead, with Jeon providing 1 2/3 shutout innings, Kwak Do-gyu following with 1 1/3 innings without a hit, and closer Jung Hai-young retiring the side in the ninth. Tigers manager Lee Bum-ho praised Jeon's performance, citing his ability to manage critical situations effectively. Meanwhile, Lions manager Park Jin-man expressed regret over missed scoring opportunities, acknowledging the challenge of recovering the lead during a Korean Series game on the road. The series is set to continue with Game 2 scheduled to begin later on Wednesday, as both teams prepare to adjust their strategies for the next matchup.
