Liu Zhong-il’s Hangzhou Asian Games was bathed in golden glory, but there was one athlete who was not without question marks.
Choi Won-joon (27), a KIA Tigers “reserve outfielder” who didn’t play a single game despite being included in the final roster. His inclusion in the final roster, which was announced shortly after he completed his military service in the commercial sector, indicated his versatility in the outfield defense. However, he did not appear after the tournament began, raising questions. It was later revealed that he had been hit in the calf by a pitch before departing for Korea, and he was unable to return until the final game, ending his Asian Games campaign with a ‘0’. Upon returning to his club, KIA, he was diagnosed with a calf fascia and muscle micro-injury that will keep him out for up to eight weeks.
After a disappointing 2023, Choi bounced back to make 2024 his best year yet. In 136 games in the KBO this year, he batted .292 (128-for-438) with nine home runs, 56 RBIs, and a .791 OPS (on-base plus slugging percentage). While he didn’t reach .300, his home runs (9) and RBI (56) were career highs, and his on-base percentage was a solid .371. Defensively, he alternated between the middle infield and corner outfield spots, contributing to the team’s V12.
Ahead of the 2024 WBSC Premier12, Korea National Baseball Team head coach Ryu Jung-il called on Choi again. It’s a chance for Han, who didn’t play after making the final roster for the Asian Games a year ago.
His shoulders were heavier than a year ago.
With just three days to go before departure, 토토사이트 Ryu’s outfield was a red flag. Samsung Lions captain Koo Ja-rook was injured during the playoffs and left the team, and teammate Kim Ji-chan was dropped with an ankle injury. Only Choi Won-joon, Hong Chang-ki (LG Twins), Lee Ju-hyung (Kiwoom Heroes) and Yoon Dong-hee (Lotte Giants) remain in the outfield. “We need to go with four outfielders,” Ryu said. Shin Min-jae (LG) can go to the outfield if we need him,” Ryu said, indicating that there will be no additional selections.
Choi Won-joon joined the opening day roster this year and played a full season through the pennant race and into the Korean Series. It’s a time when physical demands are bound to increase. In the Korean Series, his pace slowed down as a result of the physical strain. However, in the last two games against Cuba, Ryu has started off well, playing defense in both games and getting hits at the plate.
Ryu used the outfield of Hong Chang-gi, Lee Joo-hyung, and Yoon Dong-hee in the two games against Cuba. Choi Won-joon is likely to play a supporting role behind them. With his versatility in the field, as well as his batting and running ability, there are hopes that he will be the team’s hidden card in the Premier 12.
Choi Won-jun will once again carry the Korean flag, just as he did when he answered the call to the Asian Games after completing his military service. After being a grain of wheat in the V12 this season, he is looking forward to making his mark on the national team once again.