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NC Dinos starter Drew VerHagen is known for his impartial approach towards all opponents, having expressed that he harbors no particular affection for any of them. The American right-hander remains unfazed about potentially facing the SSG Landers, the team that initially denied him a chance with the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) due to a failed physical.
According to Yonhap News Agency, VerHagen revealed in an interview at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul that he approaches every game with the same intensity, regardless of the opponent. "I don't really like any opponents that I pitch against," VerHagen stated, emphasizing his focus on pitching and performance. The Dinos and the Landers are scheduled to clash in a three-game series from May 5 to 7 at Incheon SSG Landers Field.
Despite the history between VerHagen and the Landers, the pitcher downplayed any additional significance to the potential matchup. Last December, the Landers had signed VerHage n to a one-year deal, only to terminate it in January after a failed medical test, replacing him with Anthony Veneziano. VerHagen considered legal action but ultimately decided against it.
In March, a new opportunity arose for VerHagen with the Dinos after an injury sidelined their ace, Riley Thompson, allowing them to sign VerHagen to a short-term contract. VerHagen has since proven his worth, with a 1-0 record and a 2.89 ERA over 18 2/3 innings in four starts.
VerHagen's path to the KBO began with a selection in the fourth round of the 2012 MLB draft by the Detroit Tigers. His career includes stints with the Tigers, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan's NPB. Despite the lack of a long-term guarantee with the Dinos, VerHagen embraced the challenge to experience KBO's high-level baseball and Korean culture.
The pitcher has adjusted well to the fast-paced transition without spring training and expressed his enjoyment of Ko rea, mentioning the support of his wife and his interest in exploring the local culture and cuisine. On the field, he noted the challenge posed by KBO hitters, who he feels are more powerful than those in Japan.
VerHagen remains focused on his current performance and has found it surprisingly easy to remain present despite the uncertainty of his future with the team. With his impressive start and open-minded outlook, VerHagen is making the most of his opportunity in the KBO.
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