INCHEON, South Korea - Lee Jung-hoo, formerly of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), is setting his sights on a World Series championship with his new team, the San Francisco Giants, in Major League Baseball (MLB). Despite a successful seven-year stint with the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO, where he experienced two Korean Series losses in 2019 and 2022, Lee is yet to clinch a professional title.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee spoke to reporters at Incheon International Airport following his return home on Tuesday, after signing a significant six-year, US$113 million contract with the Giants. The team, renowned for their World Series victories in 2010, 2012, and 2014, has not seen much postseason success since then.
Lee's recruitment by the Giants is seen as a strategic move to solidify their center field and enhance batting performance. However, Lee has higher aspirations. "I've never won a championship before, and winning a title is the one thing I most want to accomplish," Lee stated. He emphasized his commitment to daily efforts and teamwork to achieve this goal.
Having been the KBO's MVP in 2022, leading in multiple batting categories, Lee holds the highest career batting average in the KBO at .340. In preparation for facing high-velocity pitches in the majors, Lee even adjusted his swing this year, showcasing his dedication to adapting and excelling in MLB.