Injured batting champion for Lions resumes training ahead of KBO postseason series

SEOUL, Oct. 15 (Yonhap) -- Samsung Lions' All-Star outfielder Koo Ja-wook returned to training on Thursday following progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury, according to the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) club. The latest test indicated that the internal bleeding and swelling in Koo's left hamstring had largely subsided, enabling the team captain to begin practicing with a tee.

Koo has also started using a stationary bike and engaging in light running exercises. However, the Lions assured that Koo will not be forced into intense baserunning or fielding drills at this stage. The 33-year-old won his first career batting title with a career-high .371 average, but has been sidelined since September 30 due to the injury sustained while running bases.

Although Koo's availability for the postseason was initially uncertain, he is anticipated to be fit to serve as a designated hitter when the Lions commence their postseason in the best-of-five second round on October 25. The Lions secured a bye into this stage by finishing second in the regular season and will face the winner of the first round series between the Kia Tigers and the LG Twins, which also follows the best-of-five format and begins on Saturday.