Baseball
Baseball
Kim Do-young and Austin Dean Extend Home Run Lead as Hilliard Chases
The race for the professional baseball home run title intensified on the 30th as Kia Tigers’ Kim Do-young and LG Twins’ Austin Dean both launched long balls. Kim secured his 32nd home run, maintaining his top position, while Austin hit his 31st, keeping close pace. This action sets up a compelling contest, with Hilliard also in pursuit.
Kim Do-young, batting third as the designated hitter, connected in the third inning against the Samsung Lions at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. Leading off the inning with his team ahead 5-2, Kim sent a 133 km/h changeup from starting pitcher Chris Fedde over the left field wall. This marked his second consecutive game with a home run.
Shortly after Kim’s blast, Austin Dean, playing first base and batting third, hit his own home run in the fourth inning at Seoul Jamsil Stadium. Facing Kiwoom Heroes’ starter An Woo-jin, Austin drove a 154 km/h fastball 125 meters to left field.
The competition for the home run crown has become a fierce battle, primarily between Kim Do-young and Austin Dean, with Hilliard also making a strong push. A potential variable in this race is the upcoming Asian Games, which could impact player availability.
Sources
