INCHEON - In an All-Star Game that combined competitive spirit with family-friendly entertainment, Team Nanum clinched a 4-2 victory over Team Dream at the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) All-Star event on Saturday. Held at Incheon SSG Landers Field, the game was a showcase of talent, humor, and sportsmanship, despite challenging weather conditions.
According to Yonhap News Agency, veteran slugger Choi Hyoung-woo, a designated hitter and outfielder for the KBO-leading Kia Tigers, was the standout performer, driving Nanum's success with a home run, a double, and an RBI single. His stellar performance, just a triple shy of hitting for the cycle, secured him the MVP title with 19 out of 21 media votes. At 40 years old, Choi became the oldest player in KBO history to earn the All-Star Game MVP honor.
The game featured players from across the league, with Team Nanum consisting of athletes from the Kia Tigers, LG Twins, NC Dinos, Hanwha Eagles, and Kiwoom Heroes, while Team Dream included players from the KT Wiz, Doosan Bears, Lotte Giants, Samsung Lions, and the host team, SSG Landers. Austin Dean of the Twins, following his win in the home run derby the previous day, contributed significantly to Nanum's score with a two-run homer.
On the pitching side, Hanwha Eagles' Ryu Hyun-jin, returning to the KBO after an 11-year stint in Major League Baseball, started the game for Nanum and was credited with the win, also snagging the Best Pitcher award. For Team Dream, David MacKinnon of the Samsung Lions provided the primary offense with a two-run home run.
The All-Star Game was as much about fun as it was about competition, with players engaging in light-hearted antics that included costume gimmicks and interactive performances. One notable moment was when Lotte Giants outfielder Hwang Seong-bin delivered a rosin bag to his pitcher using a scooter, all while dressed amusingly.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, several players brought their children to the event, creating memorable experiences for families and fans alike. The game not only highlighted the players' athletic prowess but also their roles as entertainers and family figures in the public eye.