Lions Return Home with Renewed Confidence for Korean Series Game 3 Against Kia Tigers

DAEGU: After suffering consecutive defeats on the road, the Samsung Lions are back on familiar turf for Games 3 and 4 of the Korean Series, hoping to leverage home-field advantage against the Kia Tigers. Slugger Lewin Diaz emphasized the team's focus on Game 3, as they aim to even the best-of-seven series. According to Yonhap News Agency, Diaz expressed optimism ahead of Friday's game at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, dismissing past losses and emphasizing a fresh start. "We lost the first two games, but today is a new story," Diaz said. The Lions previously showcased formidable performances at home against the LG Twins, winning emphatically with a powerful display of home runs. Diaz, who hit three homers in those previous home victories, noted the confidence boost from playing at home. "Every time we're home, we have a lot more confidence," he added, highlighting the park's conducive environment for batting success. The Lions faced setbacks in the first two games against the Tigers, including a rain-interrupte d Game 1 where they lost a lead and eventually the game, 5-1. Game 2 saw a similar fate with an 8-3 defeat. Despite these challenges, Diaz continued to shine, going 4-for-5 in the second game. Second baseman Ryu Ji-hyuk also contributed significantly, despite a neck injury from an in-game incident. With Ryu reporting no lingering effects from his injury, he emphasized the psychological impact of securing a win against the Tigers. "This is a must-win game for us," Ryu stated, recalling the pressure they felt after a similar situation against the Twins. As the series returns to Daegu, the Lions are keen to rekindle the offensive momentum they enjoyed earlier in the postseason. Leadoff man Kim Ji-chan is looking to draw on positive experiences from their past home games, saying, "Now that we're home again, we feel like we can start swinging the bat better." Shortstop Lee Jae-hyeon echoed this sentiment, stressing the team's upbeat attitude despite the current deficit. "We've talked about trying to play better at home," Lee said, underscoring the team's resilience and readiness for the challenge ahead.