Lions Legends Participate in Korean Series Pregame Ceremony at New Stadium

DAEGU: Two of the most celebrated figures in Samsung Lions history took part in a pregame ceremony before the third game of the Korean Series against the Kia Tigers at the newly inaugurated Daegu Samsung Lions Park. The event marked the first time a Korean Series game was hosted at the stadium, which opened its doors in 2016. According to Yonhap News Agency, former Lions pitcher Kim Si-jin delivered the ceremonial first pitch with his longtime catcher, Lee Man-soo, receiving it behind the plate. Joining them for the occasion was Jang On-yu, the grandson of the late Jang Hyo-jo, a notable Lions outfielder. Kim Si-jin, who played for the Lions from 1983 to 1988, was celebrated as the first Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) pitcher to achieve 100 career wins. He led the league with 25 victories in 1985 and followed with 23 wins in 1987, solidifying his status as one of the top pitchers of his time. Lee Man-soo, a fixture in the Lions lineup from the league's inaugural season in 1982, made history by becomin g the first player to win the batting Triple Crown in 1984, boasting a .340 batting average, 23 home runs, and 80 RBIs over 89 games. His career concluded with 252 home runs, and he was the first Lion to have his jersey number retired. Jang Hyo-jo, remembered for his prowess at the plate, captured four batting titles in a remarkable five-year stretch from 1983 to 1987. With a career batting average of .330, he holds the second-highest lifetime mark in KBO history among players with more than 3,000 plate appearances. Jang Hyo-jo passed away in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in Korean baseball.