Seoul:LG Twins starting pitcher Im Chan-kyu delivered a memorable performance during the final Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) regular-season game at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, earning his 15th win of the season. The 33-year-old Seoul native, who has spent his entire career with the Twins, cherished the emotional experience of playing at the historic stadium for the last time before its demolition.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Im's performance against the Doosan Bears helped secure a 7-5 victory, despite conceding five runs on six hits over five innings. The win propelled Im to the top of the KBO leaderboard for wins this season. Im expressed his mixed emotions about the game, stating, "It would have been a perfect night if I had pitched better, but it was out of my control."
The LG Twins organized a postgame ceremony to commemorate their time at Jamsil Stadium. Im reflected on his long tenure with the team, noting he has used the same locker stall since his debut in 2011. He humorously remarked about having more belongings in the clubhouse than at his home.
During the game, Im initially struggled after his team gained an early 3-0 lead, allowing the Bears to score five runs in the third inning. However, he managed to regain his composure, pitching two scoreless innings afterward. The Twins' bullpen effectively maintained the lead, holding the Bears to just one single over the final four innings.
The victory secured at least a fourth seed for the Twins, earning them a spot in the wild card round with a possibility of advancing to third place. Im viewed the game as preparation for the postseason, saying, "I just have to sharpen my command. This was a great way to prepare for the postseason."
Im, who achieved a personal milestone with his 15th win, credited his durability and ability to consistently take the mound as key factors in his success. He fondly recalled visiting Jamsil Stadium during his youth, collecting autographs and dreaming of a future with the Twins. Reflecting on those memories, he expressed hope that he might inspire young fans in the same way.