Seoul:Ahead of his final game at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, which is slated for demolition after this year, Lotte Giants manager Kim Tae-hyoung shared memories from his long association with the venue. The historic Seoul ballpark has been a significant part of Kim's career as both a player and manager.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim's first experience at the stadium was during the 1988 Olympics as a college player. Later, he joined the Doosan Bears, spending his entire 12-year playing career with them primarily as a backup catcher. As the Bears' manager, Kim achieved considerable success, leading the team to the Korean Series every year from 2015 to 2021 and securing titles in 2015, 2016, and 2019.
Reflecting on the impending demolition of the stadium, Kim, now 59, expressed that he is not particularly sentimental and is more concerned about his future. This nonchalance comes at a time when his three-year contract with the Lotte Giants is about to expire, and the team is expected to seek new leadership after failing to reach the postseason during his tenure.
The Giants, holding a record of 63-77-3 before Monday, are currently in eighth place in the 10-team Korea Baseball Organization. Kim acknowledged the disappointing results, noting the lack of postseason appearances over the past three years. He expressed his commitment to taking responsibility for the team's performance, admitting that he did not fulfill his promise to turn the Giants into a championship contender.