Catcher Lee Ji-young, who newly joined SSG.
Veteran catcher Lee Ji-young (38), who transferred to SSG Landers, expressed his intention to put aside his personal greed in the new season and dedicate himself to the team.
Lee Ji-young met with reporters immediately after the 2024 SSG Landers Fan Festival held at Songdo Convensia in Yeonsu-gu, Incheon on the 21st and said, “I will help my juniors grow through actions rather than words. “He will participate in as many games as possible and help the team win,” he said.
Jiyoung Lee's hometown is Incheon. He graduated from Jemulpo High School, a prestigious baseball school in Incheon, and entered Kyungsung University. However, he did not receive a professional selection in the 2008 rookie draft.
Afterwards, he took the training player test for SK Wyverns (now SSG), but was eliminated. Fortunately, he passed the Samsung Lions' training player test and began his professional career, helping to build a dynasty at Samsung until 2018.
Lee Ji-young, who was traded to Kiwoom Heroes after the 2018 season, solidified his position as a veteran catcher in a team dominated by young players.
In 2022, he led the team to a surprise Korean Series runner-up finish, and in 2023, he participated in the World Baseball Classic (WBC) and belatedly experienced his first Taegeuk mark.
However, with Kiwoom actively recruiting rookie catcher Kim Dong-heon in 2023, Lee Ji-young's position was greatly reduced.
Lee Ji-young, who gained free agency status after the 2023 season, wore the SSG uniform through a sign-and-trade while looking for a new team.
Jiyoung Lee said, “I played baseball with a really happy heart the year before last. However, he expressed regret, saying, “I didn't play much last year,” and “I understand that we have to develop young players due to team circumstances, but personally, I wasn't happy.”
“I never thought I would play baseball again in Incheon after graduating from high school,” he said. “I am scared to play for a new team at such a young age, but I am excited at the thought of being able to finish playing baseball where I first started.”
Jiyoung Lee will depart for Florida, USA on the 30th and begin spring camp training. Since he is a very experienced player, he has enough know-how to prepare for the off-season. In this camp, he will focus more on building relationships with his existing players.
Ji-young Lee said, “After last year's season, he has been building his body early. Physical preparation is important in the camp, but how you get along with existing players is also important,” he said. “I know that SSG has many good pitchers. I will approach first and create a comfortable relationship with the pitchers. “I want to instill confidence,” he emphasized.
Jiyoung Lee, now 38 years old, has long since put aside her personal goals. It is his determination to sacrifice for his juniors and contribute to his team heading towards the top.
He said, “I don't think about personal goals. However, he has a desire to play many innings. “Isn't a player always happy when he plays a lot?” he said emphatically, adding, “If that's the goal, that's the goal, and I want to help the team win.” 토토사이트
