“It's been a while since I've heard the name. Hearing that name makes me miss him.”

Kiwoom Heroes manager Hong Won-ki said this on the 15th when asked about the current condition of Kim Dong-yeop, who is sidelined due to a right wrist fracture before the game against Lotte.

Kim Dong-yeop, an overseas player, has played in a total of 657 games in the first division from 2016 until last year, with a batting average of .268 (2,028 at-bats, 543 hits), 92 home runs, and 316 RBIs. He has shown exceptional power, hitting more than 20 home runs in a season three times. After being released by Samsung last year, Kim Dong-yeop received a call from Kiwoom, which needed to strengthen its long-ball hitting.

After acquiring Kim Dong-yeop, Kiwoom expressed, “We are pleased to bring in a right-handed slugger that the team needed. With Kim Dong-yeop's addition, we can create a more balanced lineup and a stronger and more cohesive offense.” They also added, “We expect him to have a positive impact on the young players in the team as an experienced veteran.”

On the 15th of last month, during a spring training game against the Doosan Bears at Gocheok Sky Dome, Kim Dong-yeop was hit on the right wrist by a 148 km/h fastball thrown by starting pitcher Kim Yoo-sung. Kim, who complained of pain, was replaced by designated runner Jang Jae-young. He later received a hospital examination and was diagnosed with a fracture.

Although he seemed to be gaining momentum, having hit his first home run of the spring training in the previous day's away game against the SSG Landers, an unexpected injury prevented him from making the opening roster.

Manager Hong Won-ki expressed his disappointment, saying, “I watched him work hard with determination all winter, but he got injured right before the season started. He must be the most upset, but I feel very bad about it too.”

A club official stated regarding Kim Dong-yeop's current condition, “He is undergoing regular check-ups, and fortunately, the fracture area is healing well. He is currently undergoing lower body strength training with the Futures team. He is wearing a brace and has not yet begun technical training.” They added, “It seems that the schedule will be available after the check-up next week. Given the good progress, a return next month looks possible.”

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