As the local media continues to praise 'The Grandson of the Wind' Lee Jung-hoo (San Francisco Giants outfielder), a former Director General of Major League Baseball also commended Lee Jung-hoo's performance.
The American sports media outlet Sports Illustrated stated on the 2nd (Korean time) that 'San Francisco is engaged in a fierce ranking competition in the National League West this season,' and that 'with the LA Dodgers and San Diego Padres maintaining their strength, San Francisco too is demonstrating considerable resilience and is considered a contender for postseason entry. At the center of this is 'The Grandson of the Wind' Lee Jung-hoo.'
The outlet continued, 'Lee Jung-hoo struggled last year, limited to 37 games due to a left shoulder labrum tear. He recorded a batting average of .262, an on-base percentage of .310, a slugging percentage of .331, with 2 home runs and 15 runs scored,' reflecting on his rookie year.
Recovering from injury, Lee Jung-hoo rose to national star status in Major League Baseball. The outlet reported, 'Lee Jung-hoo has completely changed this season. Jim Bowden, a former Director General of a Major League club and an analyst for the American sports media outlet The Athletic, selected Lee Jung-hoo as a National League All-Star in April.'
'Following the opening, Lee Jung-hoo has recorded a batting average of .319, an on-base percentage of .375, and a slugging percentage of .526, along with 3 home runs, 18 RBIs, and 23 runs in 30 games. He ranks 2nd in Major League Baseball with 11 doubles and 6th with 2 triples,' the report noted.
Sports Illustrated stated, 'Strikeouts have slightly increased compared to last year, but the aggressive swing and production ability are highly praised. It is a result of technical evolution and adaptation,' adding that 'with accurate throws and stable defensive skills, Lee Jung-hoo has shown a high contribution in outfield defense.'
Additionally, 'While the pitching staff supports the team, the lineup has often rebounded around Lee Jung-hoo,' it stated. 'Although it is still uncertain whether Lee Jung-hoo can make his first All-Star appearance in the July All-Star Game, if he maintains his current momentum, there is a strong evaluation that he can certainly be considered for selection.'
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