Suwon:KT Wiz manager Lee Kang-chul acknowledges the heightened pressure as his team prepares to face the Samsung Lions in the Korean Series. Despite maintaining an optimistic mindset in previous postseason games, Lee admits the stakes are different this time, with the Wiz being the favorites due to their regular-season dominance.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Wiz finished the regular season eight games ahead of the Lions and have earned a bye to the Korean Series. On October 19, Lee became the highest-paid manager in Korea Baseball Organization history with a three-year extension worth 3.4 billion won (US$2.5 million), adding further expectations for success.
During a pregame media session at KT Wiz Park, Lee expressed his awareness of the expectations, stating that the media's portrayal of the team as a formidable contender adds pressure. In 2021, Lee viewed the Korean Series as a bonus after securing their first title, but he feels compelled to achieve victory this year. Despite not playing since October 12, Lee is confident in his team's preparation, citing successful scrimmages and effective batting practices.
Lee is also considering strategic adjustments, such as potentially moving starting pitcher Logan Allen to the bullpen to counter the Lions’ left-heavy lineup. He remained non-committal about his plans for the series, encouraging fans to watch the game to see the team's strategies unfold.