Lions manager hoping for better defense with team off to Korean Series

Daegu, November 1 (Yonhap) -- Despite being in the midst of the Korean Series, Samsung Lions manager Park Jin-man urged his team to improve their defensive performance. Samsung Lions advanced to the Korean Series after defeating Kia Tigers 6-1 in Game 5 of the second round. The Lions scored 11 hits and recorded 11 hits, but also committed two errors, raising the total to nine errors across five games.

Park, a renowned defensive shortstop, expressed concerns about the team's defensive abilities in the postseason. He believed some players were intimidated by the moment, and fielding requires the same confidence as hitting. Park emphasized that even small errors could determine game outcomes in the Korean Series. The Lions played a swift two-hour and 35-minute game, the quickest of the series.

Starting pitcher Ariel Jurado allowed only one unearned run in seven strong innings and earned the series MVP award. Catcher Kim Ji-chan led the offense with three hits, three RBIs, and three runs scored. Reliever Lee Seung-min, who appeared in all five games, was the unsung hero, handling crucial innings against the Tigers' key hitters.

Park hinted at potential lineup adjustments for the Korean Series, which starts Tuesday against KT Wiz. Veteran designated hitter Choi Hyoung-woo, who played in left field in four games, struggled physically and mentally and may be moved to another position.