SSG Landers manager Lee Sung-yong urged his players not to perform head-first slides into first base.
In an interview before the game against the LG Twins on the 23rd at Incheon SSG Landers Field during the '2025 Shinhan Bank SOL Bank KBO League,' Lee Sung-yong pointed out, 'The principle of our team is that head-first sliding into first base results in a fine,' referring to Jo Hyung-woo's head-first slide during the match against Doosan on the 22nd.
On the 22nd, Jo Hyung-woo batted a ground ball to the shortstop in a game against the Doosan Bears at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul, with his team trailing 4-6 in the top of the ninth inning with no outs and runners on first and second base. In this crucial situation, Jo Hyung-woo made a head-first slide into first base to avoid a double play, resulting in one out and runners on first and third base. SSG scored one run on Chae Hyun-woo's RBI groundout but ultimately lost 5-6.
Jo Hyung-woo's eagerness to dive in order to stay alive was commendable, but Lee Sung-yong viewed the play negatively. The risk of injury is too high, and the actual effectiveness is negligible. Lee Sung-yong noted, '(When sliding head-first into first base) the probability of injury is too high. Therefore, I declared that sliding into first base would result in a fine without exception. Jo Hyung-woo is also considering what to do and plans to discuss it with the coaches.'
Head-first sliding into first base is a play that most teams prohibit. Like SSG, many teams impose fines for it. Nevertheless, players can frequently be seen diving to make it to first base out of their desire to stay alive in the game.
Lee Sung-yong stated, 'Nevertheless, such plays must be eliminated. The loss from injuries caused by them is greater. Moreover, it is practically faster to just run. That has been verified. Yet, players continue to make such plays. During my two years as manager, this seems to be the first instance that has come up.' He could not hide his disappointment regarding Jo Hyung-woo's head-first slide into first base.
According to the principle, this incident would end with Jo Hyung-woo paying a fine. However, Lee Sung-yong thought of ways to convey a stronger message to the players.
'I will discuss with the coaches whether it is better to just let this go or to follow the principle,' said Lee Sung-yong, who added, 'I clearly stated that head-first sliding into first base results in a fine. I have even mentioned that the base running coach would be fined as well. It should never happen.' He remarked, 'I am considering whether to pay the fine myself or whether the coach will do it. It is that important. I believe we need to convey the message that sliding into first base should not happen this time. Jo Hyung-woo is now playing baseball, and getting injured would be a big deal.' He emphasized once again.
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