"I really want to cry."
KT Wiz manager Lee Kang-cheol reflected on the loss of left-handed reliever Jeon Yong-joo, who was removed from the first team roster due to appendicitis surgery, ahead of the game against the Lotte Giants at Sajik Stadium in Busan on the 29th.
Jeon Yong-joo had complained of abdominal pain since before the game the previous day (28th). The diagnosis confirmed appendicitis. Jeon Yong-joo ultimately underwent surgery at a hospital in Busan. A minimum absence of one month is unavoidable.
Jeon Yong-joo has recorded no wins, one loss, and four holds in 13 games this season, with an earned run average of 1.93 (2 earned runs in 9⅓ innings). He had been throwing fastballs reaching the low 150s km/h and had recently secured a spot in the key relief group. Manager Lee Kang-cheol had been experiencing a thirst for left-handed relievers every season, but Jeon Yong-joo's growth had provided some relief.
Just as he was gaining confidence and trying to grow further, he faced an unexpected injury in appendicitis. Manager Lee Kang-cheol said, "I really want to cry. I had managed to make it here, and my confidence was right there, but then I got hurt," struggling to continue speaking.
Fortunately, the trade with LG to acquire left-hander Lim Jun-hyung has been a blessing. The manager remarked, "It seems they want me to develop Lim Jun-hyung."
KT has called up rookie right-handed pitcher Kim Jae-won this year to replace Jeon Yong-joo. He graduated from Jangchung High School and was selected in the 3rd round of the 2025 Rookie Draft. He has appeared in three games this season, pitching 3⅓ innings with an earned run average of 10.80.
[OSEN]