CHANGWON, South Korea — In a pivotal moment for the NC Dinos, cleanup hitter Jason Martin is seeking to recapture the triumphant performance he delivered just over a week ago that propelled his team to the current heights in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) postseason.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Martin, who struck a critical three-run homer that led to a 7-6 victory over the SSG Landers, is aiming to overcome a recent hitless streak as the Dinos face the KT Wiz in Game 3 of the second round at Changwon NC Park. The Dinos, who hold a two-game advantage in the series, are on the cusp of securing a place in the Korean Series with another win.
Last week's heroics in the bottom of the second inning reversed a deficit into a lead that ultimately allowed the Dinos to sweep the Landers in three games. Now, Martin is looking to channel those memories into success in today's game.
Martin's contribution in the current series has been modest, with an 0-for-8 at-bat record, though he has managed a sacrifice fly and an RBI. He expresses a steady approach, focusing on each at-bat as a new opportunity without dwelling on past performances.
The Dinos have not solely relied on Martin for their offensive drive; the team has seen substantial contributions from the top of their batting order. Son Ah-seop, Park Min-woo, and Park Kun-woo, batting first through third, have collectively garnered 10 out of the 18 hits in the series' first two games.
Martin praised the depth of his team, acknowledging that when one player is struggling, others step up to maintain the team's momentum. He also emphasized the advantage of batting behind such productive players, often finding himself with runners in scoring positions, enhancing his chances to drive in more runs.
The Dinos are currently on a six-game winning streak in this postseason and have won nine consecutive postseason games dating back to their previous appearance in 2020, tying a KBO record for the longest winning streak in postseason history.
In his first KBO season, Martin has experienced the high stakes of postseason play and notes a palpable sense of confidence within the team, a sentiment that he feels is a significant factor in their continued success.
As the Dinos prepare for another critical game, Martin and his team aim to extend their remarkable streak and secure their position in the chase for the championship.