Daegu:Samsung Lions ace Ariel Jurado delivered a standout performance in Game 3 of the Korean Series, securing a crucial victory for his team against the KT Wiz at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. Jurado allowed just one run over seven innings, helping the Lions clinch a 5-1 win and take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jurado, who was the MVP in the previous postseason series, continued his impressive form by holding the Wiz to six hits. Despite allowing a run in the first inning, Jurado kept the opposition scoreless for the next six innings. The Lions quickly equalized in the bottom of the first and gained a 4-1 lead with contributions from Kim Seong-yoon and Koo Ja-wook.
Jurado demonstrated resilience, striking out key batters to escape threats in the second and third innings. He efficiently managed the game despite a scare in the sixth inning when a ball struck his hand. Jurado maintained his composure, retiring eight consecutive batters at one point and completing his outing with 108 pitches.
His counterpart, So Hyeong-jun of the Wiz, struggled early on with five walks and four runs allowed in the first two innings but managed to settle down later. However, the Wiz lineup could not capitalize, as Jurado's dominance kept them at bay.
Jurado expressed no concern over his hand after the game and credited his ability to adjust his pitching technique for his success. Reflecting on a challenging year marked by injuries, Jurado emphasized his focus on contributing to the team's success in the ongoing series.