Daegu:The Samsung Lions defied expectations to capture the Korean Series title against the heavily favored KT Wiz. Entering the series as the No. 2 seed, the Lions overcame significant odds to secure the championship.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the KT Wiz, having secured the No. 1 seed with the best regular-season record, were expected to dominate, especially after winning the first game of the series 8-7 at home. Historically, teams winning the opening game have gone on to win the championship approximately 74 percent of the time.
Despite this, the Lions fought back, securing a crucial victory in the second game with a 3-2 win in 12 innings. Returning to their home ground in Daegu, they continued their winning streak, taking Game 3 by a score of 5-1. With history now on their side, they pushed forward to win the fourth game 10-5, establishing a commanding 3-1 series lead.
In Game 5, the Lions decisively routed the Wiz 12-1, clinching the title. Veteran players, such as catcher Kang Min-ho and captain Koo Ja-wook, celebrated their first championship rings, while Choi Hyoung-woo became the oldest champion at 42. Manager Park Jin-man, who had previously won six titles as a player, earned his first ring as a manager, having learned from past experiences to manage each game with an aggressive approach.