KIA Tigers' star player Kim Do-young (22) received a Grade 2 diagnosis of a right hamstring injury during a crossover examination. There are concerns about the prolonged duration of his absence.
KIA stated on the 28th, "Today, he underwent a second examination regarding the right hamstring area, and the findings are the same as the initial examination, indicating a right hamstring injury. He is scheduled to receive treatment for the injury for the time being and will undergo a follow-up examination in four weeks."
A concerning aspect is that the injury severity has increased from Grade 1 to Grade 2 compared to the left hamstring injury sustained in the season opener on March 22. This indicates that the degree of the injury has worsened. Previously, he received a follow-up examination after two weeks, but this time it will be after four weeks.
This suggests that the rehabilitation period will be extended. He returned to play after just 33 days previously, but this time he is expected to return effectively in the second half of the season. Given that he has injuries to both thighs, it appears that returning to play will make it difficult for him to attempt steals.
On the 27th, Kim Do-young had a key hit during the KIA game against the Kiwoom Heroes, driving in a run with two outs in the bottom of the fifth inning as KIA trailed 1-2. Later, he attempted to steal second base while at bat for Choi Hyung-woo and successfully slid in headfirst.
However, he immediately gripped his right thigh, complained of pain, and was replaced. After receiving a preliminary MRI at the designated hospital, he was diagnosed with a hamstring injury. The team sent the MRI film to a hospital in Seoul for a crossover examination, where he received a Grade 2 diagnosis.
It is unfortunate that he sustained the injury right after Manager Lee Bum-ho emphasized caution regarding steals before the game. Manager Lee noted, "The ability to produce runs through hitting in opportunities is more important than stealing bases. While I will leave the stealing to him, he must take care of his body as much as possible."
KIA is currently struggling due to injuries to key players. Na Sung-bum and Kim Sun-bin are still uncertain about their return dates due to calf muscle injuries. Patrick Wisdom, who has a Major League record of 88 home runs, is also sidelined with back pain and is expected to return by June 1. Kim Do-young, who led KIA to victory in last year's KBO League while dominating, is dealing with another hamstring injury, adding to the team's woes.
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