SEOUL – Jung Woo-ram, a veteran reliever for the Hanwha Eagles and the all-time leader in games pitched in South Korean baseball, is set to begin the 2024 season in the unique role of a player-coach. The Eagles announced this new phase in Jung's career, citing his work ethic, consistency, and influence in the clubhouse as key factors in this decision.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Jung, 38, has completed 18 seasons in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), with the last eight spent with the Eagles. He made history by surpassing 1,000 career appearances this year, a milestone no active pitcher in the league has achieved. Throughout his career spanning 977 1/3 innings, Jung has maintained a 3.18 ERA with a 64-47 record, 197 saves, and 145 holds.
Despite a challenging 2023 season where he appeared in 52 games with a 5.36 ERA, the Eagles believe Jung's experience and leadership qualities will significantly benefit the team.the club, Jung will start the 2024 season as a minor league coach before joining as a pitcher later in the season. This move is part of the Eagles' strategy to rebuild around younger pitchers, offering them more opportunities to develop and grow.
Jung expressed gratitude for the opportunity, recognizing it as a meaningful transition from playing to coaching. He aims to prioritize the development of younger pitchers, pledging to approach them with an open heart and remain in pitching shape to contribute on the mound later in the season.