Professional baseball player Ahn Woo-jin, who is fulfilling his military obligation as a social service personnel, had a surprise meeting with Major League Baseball living legend Justin Verlander (San Francisco Giants) in the United States. This was thanks to Lee Jung-hoo (San Francisco Giants outfielder), who shared a meal with him during their time with Kiwoom.
Ahn Woo-jin, who underwent an ulnar collateral ligament surgery on his right elbow at the Kellan-Jov Clinic in Los Angeles in September 2023, is staying in the U.S. for a check-up. His agency handled the necessary arrangements for his trip to the U.S. for the check-up during his social service period. Ahn, who began his military service as a social service personnel in December 2023, will be discharged on Sept. 17 this year.
Ahn Woo-jin visited Oracle Park, the home stadium of the San Francisco Giants where Lee Jung-hoo plays, to watch the game. After the game, he had a meaningful time meeting Verlander through Lee Jung-hoo.
Lee Jung-hoo, who debuted in the major leagues last year, ended his season early due to a left shoulder injury. In his debut season, he played 37 games and had a batting average of .262 (38 hits in 145 at-bats), 2 home runs, 8 RBIs, and 15 runs scored with 2 stolen bases. This season, he has recorded a batting average of .276 (50 hits in 181 at-bats), 6 home runs, 29 RBIs, 30 runs scored, and 3 stolen bases with an OPS of .782 in 46 games.
Verlander is a bona fide 'living legend' with a career total of 262 wins in Major League Baseball. He boasts an illustrious award history, including American League Rookie of the Year (2006), Most Valuable Player (2011), and Cy Young Awards (2011, 2019, 2022), and is regarded as one of the best active pitchers.
On this day, Ahn Woo-jin not only took commemorative photos with Verlander but also received a uniform with an autograph and a supportive message. He posted a certified photo on social media.
Ahn Woo-jin is a year junior to Lee Jung-hoo, who attended Whimoon High School. Lee Jung-hoo was selected as the first overall pick in 2017 and joined Nexen Heroes, while Ahn Woo-jin joined Nexen with the first overall pick in 2018. They played together for the Heroes until 2023.
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