Ace Reyes Propels Samsung Lions to Victory with Stellar Pitching Performance

DAEGU: The Samsung Lions, aided by a standout performance from Dominican pitcher Denyi Reyes, secured their first win in the Korean Series against the Kia Tigers, cutting the series deficit to 2-1. Reyes, benefiting from an additional day of rest due to rain delays, delivered a commanding performance, allowing only one run over seven innings and striking out seven batters, leading the Lions to a 4-2 victory at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. According to Yonhap News Agency, Reyes was originally slated to pitch on Thursday, but weather conditions pushed the game to Friday, providing him with an extra day of rest. This marked the second time this postseason that rain delays have altered Reyes's schedule. Despite his challenging regular-season statistics against the Tigers, Reyes adjusted his strategy, focusing on executing the right pitches in crucial situations. His efforts paid off as he maintained a 0.87 ERA over 20 2/3 innings during the postseason. In the game, Reyes demonstrated resilience, particularly in th e second inning, escaping a jam with a double play initiated by first baseman Lewin Diaz's skillful defensive play. Left fielder Kim Hun-gon further supported the team with a critical diving catch in the fifth inning, preventing the Tigers from gaining momentum. The Lions capitalized on the defensive stops, with Lee Sung-gyu hitting a solo home run in the third inning, followed by Kim Young-woong's homer in the fifth. Reyes showed determination in the sixth inning, allowing a run but preventing further damage by striking out Na Sung-bum. He returned in the seventh inning, defying his regular-season statistics to retire the side in order, concluding his outing with a strikeout at pitch 107. The Lions' offense continued to shine, with Kim Hun-gon and Park Byung-ho each hitting solo home runs in the seventh inning, extending the lead to 4-1. Park's home run marked his 14th career postseason homer, tying him for the all-time lead and breaking a personal slump in the series. Park expressed relief and excitement over his performance, crediting his teammates for their supportive energy. In the hitter-friendly confines of Daegu Samsung Lions Park, where the Lions have hit 12 home runs in three postseason games, Park emphasized the importance of maintaining their home run-hitting identity throughout the series. The Lions will aim to continue their offensive momentum in Game 4, scheduled for Saturday.