Tigers Manager Focuses on Game 3 Amid Early Korean Series Wins

DAEGU: The Kia Tigers, having secured victories in the first two games of the Korean Series against the Samsung Lions, are not resting on their laurels, according to manager Lee Bum-ho. His primary focus is on clinching a win in the third game, scheduled to take place on the road this Friday. According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee emphasized the unpredictable nature of baseball during a pregame press conference at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, located 235 kilometers southeast of Seoul. He highlighted the instances where teams have lost after leading 2-0 in the Korean Series, underscoring the importance of staying focused on the remaining games. In Game 3, the Tigers will face Denyi Reyes, the Lions' starter who struggled against them in the regular season, posting an 8.31 ERA in three meetings. Lee noted the significance of capitalizing on Reyes's mistakes, despite his strong performance in the previous postseason round against the LG Twins, where he allowed only seven hits in 13 2/3 innings. Lee also discussed his team's strategy, highlighting the importance of aggressive base running to put pressure on Reyes. He stressed the need to seize opportunities when the right-hander makes errors. For the Tigers, Eric Lauer will take the mound. The American left-hander seeks redemption after a challenging Korea Baseball Organization debut in August, where he allowed seven hits and four runs in a brief outing. Lee expressed confidence in Lauer's eagerness to deliver a strong performance and mentioned that the bullpen is prepared to step in early if necessary. The Samsung Lions have made adjustments to their lineup for Game 3, notably moving Ryu Ji-hyuk to the No. 2 spot following his successful performance in Game 2. Lee acknowledged the Lions' strategy to place their in-form hitters at the top of the lineup and emphasized the need for the Tigers to neutralize their momentum while remaining vigilant for unexpected tactics.