The Lotte Giants of the Korean professional baseball league have been struck by a grave injury curse. Outfielder Hwang Seong-bin (28) is expected to be out for about 8 to 10 weeks due to a metacarpal fracture. Essentially, he is out for the first half of the season.
Lotte reported that on the 9th, after an examination at Korea University Anam Hospital, Hwang underwent additional tests at Seoul Samsung Medical Center to cross-check the injury site, and he was diagnosed with a fracture of the fourth metacarpal in his left hand. Surgery with plate fixation is required, and to expedite the recovery schedule, it is crucial to perform the surgery quickly. They announced that the surgery will be conducted at Samsung Medical Center, where the schedule is feasible.
It is expected to take more than two months for his return. The Lotte club stated, "Two weeks of rest are required after surgery. Skill training will be possible six weeks after surgery, and it is expected to take about 8 to 10 weeks for a full return."
Hwang Seong-bin left the game with an injury after just one at-bat against SSG on the 5th. As the starting center fielder and leadoff hitter, Hwang attempted a surprise bunt on the first pitch of his first at-bat in the bottom of the first inning. He showed determination as he slid head-first into first base but was called out. Afterward, Hwang complained of finger pain and was replaced by Kim Dong-hyuk, exiting the game.
Hwang Seong-bin, who complained of pain in his left middle finger, ring finger, and thumb, immediately moved to Busan Medical Center for X-rays and examinations, but no injury was found at that time. Due to the holiday period, additional tests were difficult, and on the morning of the 6th, he underwent a CT scan and detailed examination at the team's designated hospital, Joongang Hospital, which revealed a metacarpal fracture. The results from the re-examination on the 8th were consistent, and ultimately, he had to undergo surgery.
This season, Hwang Seong-bin has recorded a batting average of .324 (36 hits in 111 at-bats), with 12 RBIs, 18 runs, 10 stolen bases, and an OPS of .744, playing a leading role in the Lotte lineup. The difference with and without Hwang Seong-bin is significant.
Lotte manager Kim Tae-hyung also had no choice but to be distraught. In an interview before the game on the 6th, manager Kim expressed concern about Hwang Seong-bin, noting, "It seems that it is more than just a minor injury; it looks quite serious." However, regarding the head-first slide into first base that caused the injury, he said, "It can't be helped. He's a player who slides very well," and did not fault the play.
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