When will Lotte Giants pitcher Choi Jun-yong return to the first team stage?
After graduating from Gyeongnam High School, Choi Jun-yong, who started his professional career after receiving Lotte’s primary nomination in 2020, was recognized for his potential by winning 8 holds in the first year of his debut. He completed a career high season last year with 4 wins, 2 losses, 1 save and 20 holds (average ERA of 2.85).
He has been expected to be a key member of Pilseung Group this season, but he has not yet stepped on the mound for the first team. He pitched 5 times in exhibition games, took one loss without a win, and showed an unstable appearance with an earned run average of 13.50, so he needed to be reorganized.
Choi Joon-yong, who is steadily building his body in the future team, pitched in a practice game against Busan National University of Science and Technology held at Sangdong Stadium in Gimhae on the 14th. He played one inning and pitched well with no runs (one hit and two strikeouts). His best speed was recorded on a speed gun up to 146 km.
Lotte coach Larry Sutton said ahead of the Daegu Samsung game on the 14th, “Choi Jun-yong pitched in the futures practice game today, and I received a report that he was fine. He is showing a gradual improvement.”
He also said, “Choi Jun-yong has to show himself that he is ready. He added that if he shows a steady appearance in the futures game, he will judge that he is ready (to return to the first team).” 안전놀이터
If 20-hold Choi Jun-yong recovers his normal condition and adds to the strength of the first team, Lotte’s fighting team is expected to become more solid.