Professional baseball player Ruben Cardenas of the Kiwoom Heroes expressed his feelings about becoming a dot dad.

Ahead of the away game against the Lotte Giants at Sajik Stadium on the 15th, Cardenas met with reporters and said, "I am so happy. My wife and I feel blessed by God," with a bright smile.

What was it like when he first saw his daughter's face? Cardenas said, "I was so happy that I couldn't express it in words. I didn't really understand the meaning of that expression until now."

He was asked if he could expect a milk buff since he has become a father. He responded, "There is a similar term in the U.S. that can be expressed as 'dad's strength.'" When asked if he has prepared a home run celebration for his daughter, who is so precious that he wouldn't feel pain even if she were in his eye, he smiled and said, "Just wait and see for a moment."

As of the 14th, Kiwoom remains at the bottom of the standings with a record of 7 wins and 12 losses. The absence of Cardenas, who has demonstrated a batting average of .333 with 15 hits in 45 at-bats, 3 home runs, 16 RBIs, 7 runs, and an OPS of 1.004, is disappointing.

In response, he emphasized, "I don't think the team has weakened because I was absent. I believe that baseball can only be won when pitching, hitting, and defense work in harmony. If there is anything I can do to help the team, I will do it."

Kiwoom's starting lineup consisted of second baseman Song Seong-mun, designated hitter Ruben Cardenas, center fielder Lee Ju-hyung, first baseman Choi Joo-hwan, left fielder Yaisiel Puig, right fielder Park Joo-hong, third baseman Jeon Tae-hyun, catcher Kim Jae-hyun, and shortstop Kim Tae-jin.

After returning to Korea on the afternoon of the 14th, he stated that he would be playing in a match without having adjusted to the time difference. "I am a bit tired, but I really wanted to play baseball and contribute to the team. I am happy to be included in the lineup," he said.

Cardenas, who left his wife and daughter in the U.S. to come to Korea, said, "I am really grateful to God for meeting such a good wife, and when the baby can travel abroad, I will bring her immediately."

He was asked what the most memorable congratulatory message or gift he received was after becoming a father. He expressed his gratitude, saying, "I was really thankful that everyone sincerely congratulated me. It was great when my teammates came up to me to offer their congratulations."

[OSEN]