It’s an unstoppable ‘dinosaur army’, but it’s not without worries.
NC Dinos won the LG Twins away game held at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul on the 18th with a score of 4-2 (10 overtime) and rose to first place alone in the regular season. Prior to the game on this day, it was a tie for second place in the lead SSG Landers, behind in win rate without a ride, but SSG was caught by KT Wiz and rose to the sole lead, one game ahead. The uptrend is steep enough to win 8 wins (2 losses) in the last 10 games, including 3 wins in a row.
This is definitely beyond expectations. Considering that they were not evaluated as candidates for the final 5 before the opening, it is a series of ‘reversals’. In particular, it is more encouraging because it was achieved without foreign hitter Jason Martin (side) and foreign pitcher Taylor Widener (waist). However, the club’s concerns also start here. In particular, how to fill the vacancy left by Widener is the biggest variable in maintaining the top ranking. Widener, who had a hospital checkup on the 17th and 18th, heard the result that “you can train normally”, but it is difficult to estimate the exact time of return.
NC coach Kang In-kwon is using Lee Yong-jun (21) as a ‘temporary selection’. On the 12th, the second and first start of the season, Lee Yong-jun won his first debut win against Changwon KT Wiz by giving up 1 run in 5 innings. He allowed 3 hits and 2 runs in 4 innings against LG on the 18th. He is responsible for 4-5 innings and holds up well beyond expectations. However, it is important to consider that he is a pitcher in his third year who does not have much experience. This week, he also has to make a ‘twice a week start’. As it is a burdensome schedule, the ‘temporary selection’ that will change roles with Lee Yong-jun depending on the situation.
The problem is that we do not have the right resources. The performance of the 2nd group (Futures League) selection resources is disappointing. As of the 18th, NC’s second-team pitcher allowed a total of 76 walks in 13 games. Disgraced 2nd overall 1st place. Shin Young-woo, who was expected as a large rookie, had 2 games, 2 losses and an average ERA of 9.45. He pitched 6 2/3 innings, giving up 11 walks. Left-handed prospect Jeong Gu-beom also posted an ERA of 11.00 in two games. He walked 6 and gave up 12 runs (11 earned) in 9 innings. Veteran Lee Jae-hak is the most stable, but it is not without ups and downs.
NC coach Kang In-kwon said,스포츠토토 “The rate of walks is high in Futures. It seems not easy to emphasize in the pitcher part.” I showed it, but I think I should pay attention to the walks and reduce them.”
For now, I plan to push the ‘Lee Yong-jun card’. Lee Yong-jun is likely to start the game against the Lotte Giants in Changwon on the 23rd. Director Kang said, “I plan to protect (Lee Yong-jun’s) rotation,” and “I’m thinking about (alternatives) while looking at the status of the 5th starting candidate (prepared by the 2nd team) and the matchup of the opponent. For the time being, I plan to give Lee Yong-jun more opportunities.” revealed