Park Byung-ho, the 'national slugger' of the Samsung Lions in the Futures League, has tasted success again after 7 days. On June 6, Park started as the designated hitter in the home game against Sangmu at Gyeongsan Ballpark.

After coming up as the leadoff hitter in the second inning and being caught by the catcher for a strikeout, Park was out on a fly ball to the left fielder in the fourth inning with two outs and a runner on first base. Park led off again in the sixth inning, with his team trailing 3-4, and had success at the plate. The opposing pitcher, Heo Yoon-dong, is set to return to Samsung after being discharged on the 17th.

Park hit a fifth pitch into the left-field stands from a 3B-1S count against Heo Yoon-dong. The distance was 115 meters. It was his first home run in 7 days since the game against the NC Dinos on May 30. In the seventh inning, with one out and no runners on base, Park struck out swinging and was replaced by Kim Jae-hyung in the ninth inning.

After hitting 23 home runs last year, Park has played in 48 games this season, recording a batting average of .200 (25 hits in 125 at-bats), 9 home runs, 20 RBIs, 18 runs scored, and an OPS of .765.

Park, who has been sidelined due to knee pain, has been participating in Futures games since the 27th of last month. As of June 6, he has played in 8 games, with 29 at-bats, 5 hits, a batting average of .172, 2 home runs, 5 RBIs, and 3 runs scored.

Manager Park Jin-man noted about Park Byung-ho's current condition that it is "a situation that requires more time." This means he needs to elevate his batting pace.

Park Byung-ho, who has hit 412 home runs in the first team, still has an enormous presence. Manager Park Jin-man emphasized that Park, who excels at producing long hits, is essential for the team.

He said, "Park Byung-ho's physical condition is not fully recovered, and his training volume has been insufficient. However, once he regains his condition, he is a player who can hit 30 home runs at any time. After recovery, he will definitely be a great asset."

Samsung was planning to alternate Lewin Diaz and Park Byung-ho at first base and designated hitter positions. If Park recovers to his normal condition and returns to the first team, it will not only strengthen the team but also greatly help Diaz manage his stamina.

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