The U.S. sports media Sports Illustrated highlighted the remarkable defensive skills of Lee Jung-hoo (San Francisco Giants outfielder), known as 'the son of the wind.' It reported that he has significantly contributed to the team's upward momentum not just in offense but also in defense.
The media noted on the 10th (Korean time) that "San Francisco started this season in a very positive atmosphere. Although they made roster improvements during the offseason, not many expected the team to rebound this much. They certainly saw improvement, but within a few months, they have transformed into a completely different team."
The media added, "The biggest driving force is the explosive productivity of the batting lineup, and the mound is also not bad at all," mentioning that "if there is one overlooked factor, it is defense." It pointed out Matt Chapman at third base as a key to the infield defense while highlighting Lee Jung-hoo in the outfield, stating, "His performance in batting has been outstanding, but his range and sound judgment as a center fielder provide stability to the entire team."
Sports Illustrated stated, "Looking at the defensive metrics and analysis data, Lee Jung-hoo is performing excellently in the early part of this season, not just at a satisfactory level." Based on data from Major League Baseball statistics site Baseball Savant, it reported, "In most categories, including out contribution compared to the average (77), throw value (89), throw strength (87), and speed (71), he is above the league average. He is essentially in the top 25% of the league."
It continued, "On the other hand, his reaction speed, initial acceleration, and batted ball judgment are below league average, but this actually shows how exceptional Lee Jung-hoo's speed and strong throwing ability are." It noted, "Despite imperfect batted ball judgment and starting, his ability to catch the ball and quickly make throws proves that he is among the league's elite."
Meanwhile, Lee Jung-hoo will be starting as the number three center fielder in the away game against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on this day.
San Francisco, led by starting pitcher Jordan Hicks, has arranged the batting order as follows: right fielder Mike Yastrzemski, shortstop Willy Adames, center fielder Lee Jung-hoo, third baseman Matt Chapman, designated hitter Wilmer Flores, left fielder Elliott Ramos, first baseman Ramón Laureano Jr., catcher Patrick Bailey, and second baseman Christian Arroyo.
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