The return clock for Samsung Lions pitcher Choi Ji-kwang continues to tick. Choi, who underwent right elbow ligament reconstruction surgery in September last year, is currently engaged in 70-meter catch sessions.
Met at Gyeongsan Ballpark, Choi Ji-kwang said, "My current physical condition is very good. I felt pain when I first started the 70-meter catch, but after consulting with Coach Jeong Min-tae and the training team, I took a week off and returned to it, and now it's going well without any pain. Everyone who has experienced surgery noted that it's 'a part of the process.'"
Choi Ji-kwang, who consistently watches first team games, shared, "Lately, as my condition has been improving, I've had the urge to pitch. However, I plan to take my time. If I rush, everything could fall apart."
Having been a key member of the winning squad, he said, "I am cheering hard for my favorite player, (Kim) Jai-yoon. (Lee) Ho-seong has taken on the important role of closer and is doing well with a strong sense of responsibility. Above all, our (Oh) Seung-hwan senior has joined the first team, which will be a great support."
Kim Moo-sin (formerly Kim Yoon-su) and Lee Jae-hee, who also underwent right elbow ligament reconstruction surgery, are firing questions at Choi Ji-kwang. He laughed and said, "When I catch in the auxiliary field, they watch me intently from the third floor. Moo-sin and Jae-hee often ask, 'How much pain do you feel when you're catching?' Since I'm the first to go through this, they are most curious about whether it hurts or not."
Choi Ji-kwang also expressed his gratitude, stating, "I too benefited greatly from the advice of Coach Jeong Min-tae, senior Seung-hwan, and others like (Lee) Seung-hyun and (Kim) Dae-woo, who have undergone elbow ligament reconstruction surgery." He added, "They all said, 'Just because you feel better doesn't mean you should rush back. If you hurry, you could end up back at square one.' I plan to aim for a perfect return rather than a quick one."
The support from fans is also a great strength. Choi Ji-kwang remarked, "Some send me direct messages on Instagram or come to Gyeongsan Ballpark to say, 'I hope you come back soon.' I'm really grateful. I'm preparing well, so I promise to return in good health."
Meanwhile, after graduating from Busan High School, Choi Ji-kwang was selected by Samsung in the second round of the 2017 draft. Up until last year, he has appeared in a total of 248 games in the first team, achieving 16 wins, 16 losses, 2 saves, and 47 holds. His earned run average is 4.70. He achieved double-digit holds for three consecutive years starting in 2019 and recorded 3 wins, 2 losses, and 7 holds with an earned run average of 2.23 in 35 games last year.
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