Baseball
Baseball
Kiwoom Overcomes Alcantara Injury, Silences Samsung Bats for 3-1 Victory
The Kiwoom Heroes secured a 3-1 victory over the Samsung Lions at Gocheok Sky Dome on May 22, 2026, evening, despite an early exit from starting pitcher Raul Alcantara. This win allowed Kiwoom to avenge their previous day's loss and even the three-game series at one win apiece.
Kiwoom’s offense was powered by Kim Woong-bin, who hit his second consecutive home run, contributing two hits and an RBI. Kwon Hyuk-bin also delivered with an RBI single and strong defensive play. Choo Jae-hyun added two hits to the Heroes’ effort.
Samsung’s offense struggled significantly, failing to capitalize on multiple scoring opportunities, including two bases-loaded situations. Their only run came in the seventh inning via a double play. Despite a solid outing from starter Kim Baek-san, who allowed three runs over 4⅓ innings in his second career appearance, the Lions’ bats remained quiet.
The Heroes faced a significant challenge when Alcantara, after throwing 65 pitches, left the game in the fifth inning due to right elbow pain. However, Kiwoom’s bullpen stepped up, with Park Ji-sung pitching a clean inning and Kim Sung-min effectively retiring left-handed batters. Kanakubo Yuto was particularly crucial, escaping a bases-loaded, no-outs jam in the seventh, allowing only one run via a double play before striking out the next batter, ultimately throwing two scoreless innings. Won Jong-hyun then closed out the game.
Kiwoom manager Seol Jong-jin praised his team’s focus, highlighting their ability to overcome adversity and secure key victories. He specifically lauded the performances of Kanakubo Yuto and Won Jong-hyun for their crucial relief efforts.
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