Daejeon: Over his professional career spanning a decade in three countries, Hanwha Eagles starting pitcher Cody Ponce has never thrown more innings than the 197 2/3 innings he has logged so far in his first season in South Korea — the regular season and the postseason combined. The 31-year-old ace, though, insisted Thursday he still has more to give to the Eagles, as they are battling the LG Twins in the Korean Series.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ponce responded to questions about fatigue at the tail end of his longest season with a mixed response. “I could say yes and I could say no,” Ponce remarked, highlighting the unique energy that the postseason brings. He emphasized that in such crucial games, players often find a “second wind” and expressed confidence in his current condition, saying he is “right where I need to be right now.”
Ponce is a strong regular-season MVP candidate after winning the Triple Crown as the league leader in wins, ERA, and strikeouts. Despite a more variable performance in the postseason, he acknowledged that experiencing highs and lows is “part of this game.” His latest performance was on Wednesday during Game 3 of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) championship series. The Eagles, having lost the first two games away in Seoul, sought a home victory at Daejeon Hanwha Life Ballpark.
In this game, Ponce did his part by limiting the Twins to two runs on three hits over six innings. The Eagles were trailing 2-1 when he exited the game, with the score extending to 3-1 after the eighth inning began. However, with Ponce supporting from the dugout, the Eagles mounted a significant comeback with a six-run rally in the bottom eighth, securing a 7-3 victory.
Ponce praised the collective effort, stating, “It was a great team win. I went out there and did my best. Everybody showed up and we never gave up. That was the biggest part about last night and that’s been the story of this team — never give up.”
Looking ahead, Ponce’s involvement in the series may continue. He might be called upon from the bullpen for a potential Game 6 on Sunday or to start Game 7 on Monday, with the Korean Series title at stake. Ponce emphasized a strategic focus, saying he would “take it game by game” and keep his mindset present-focused.
“I’m just going to get ready for whenever I’m needed and be the best cheerleader I can be on the bench,” the American pitcher remarked, highlighting his readiness and team spirit.