The Doosan Bears (CEO Ko Young-seob) will hold a retirement ceremony for 'genius shortstop' Kim Jae-ho during their regular season match against KT Wiz at Jamsil Baseball Stadium on the 6th of next month.
The concept of the retirement ceremony is 'Bears all-time No. 1 shortstop' Kim Jae-ho. Kim Jae-ho, who joined the Doosan Bears as the first overall pick in 2004, recorded a batting average of .272 (1,235 hits in 4,534 at-bats), 54 home runs, and 600 RBIs over 21 years and 1,793 games until the 2024 season. As a one-club man for the Bears, he made his name at the top of various records including the most games played in franchise history and most hits, RBIs, and home runs by a shortstop.
The Doosan Bears team will take the field wearing caps and helmets adorned with the 'All Time No.1 Shortstop' patch on the day of the event. During cleaning time, a gift presentation ceremony including a commemorative plaque reflecting 21 years of dedication will take place. The formal retirement ceremony is planned to be held grandly after the game.
Kim Jae-ho will appear as the starting pitcher alongside his family before the game on the 6th. Fans will give high-fives to Kim Jae-ho, who will be on the mound as the starting pitcher. Fans wishing to participate in the high-five event can sign up through the official club application.
On the day of the game, a fan signing event with Kim Jae-ho will take place at the autograph booth next to the central entrance of the stadium starting at 4:30 p.m. Fans can apply to participate in the signing event through email until 3 p.m. on the 2nd (Wednesday).
In addition, to commemorate Kim Jae-ho's retirement, a special photo zone will be set up in the first base infield plaza, and commemorative photo cards will be released. There will also be nine types of commemorative merchandise available for sale, including retirement commemorative T-shirts and support towels.
Kim Jae-ho said, "It's been 21 years with the Jamsil Baseball Stadium, but it's my first time on the mound. I thank Park Jung-won, the club owner, and everyone at the Doosan Bears for preparing this great event," and added, "I don't think of this as a forever goodbye. I want to greet the fans with a bright smile."
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