KT Wiz's 'one-club man' Joo Kwon has set a significant milestone by becoming the team's pitcher to achieve 500 career appearances in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO).
Joo Kwon took the mound as the third pitcher in the eighth inning during an away game against the Samsung Lions at Daegu Samsung Lions Park on the 14th, leading 10-3. Joo Kwon, who became the 58th player in KBO history to record 500 appearances, pitched 1⅓ innings, allowing 1 hit, striking out 2, and earning a scoreless inning.
After graduating from Cheongju High School, Joo Kwon began his professional career after being selected by KT in 2015 and made history by recording a 9-inning no-hit shutout against the Nexen Heroes on May 27, 2016, achieving KBO's first 'debut win without a walk shutout.' This remarkable record remains as the franchise's first shutout and the 125th no-hit shutout in KBO history, as well as the 20th debut win shutout.
On July 9, 2022, Joo Kwon achieved his 100th career hold, becoming the 13th in history and the first in his franchise.
Joo Kwon said, "I feel honored to have my name listed alongside my seniors Jung Woo-ram and Lee Hye-chan. I did not expect to be in the youngest ranking."
He also expressed gratitude, saying, "After joining the team in the year following its founding, I achieved several meaningful records. I believe I could participate frequently and accumulate holds thanks to Manager Lee Kang-cheol and the pitching coaches. It makes me feel good to think that I was needed that much."
Joo Kwon did not forget to greet the fans, saying, "I was able to achieve this thanks to the overwhelming support and love from the fans."
Joo Kwon shared his aspirations, saying, "When I was younger, I watched my seniors Go Young-pyo and Woo Gyu-min and thought, 'I want to be a player like them.' Now that I have juniors, I want to be a role model for them through my actions and performance."
Additionally, he said, "This season, no matter the situation, I want to throw my pitches quietly and contribute to the team."
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