[MyDaily = Incheon Kim Hee-soo] Could this be the player who finally ends Manager Kim Tae-hyung’s search?
Since the offseason, Kim has zeroed in on finding a reliable leadoff hitter. Han Tae-yang and Reyes were early frontrunners, but neither claimed the role during spring training or after the season opened, leaving both the manager and Lotte fans frustrated.
Recently, though, a candidate has emerged: Jang Du-seong. Batting leadoff for the Lotte Giants against the SSG Landers at SSG Landers Field in Incheon on May 1, Jang collected three hits and delivered the type of performance you want from a No. 1 hitter. He capped it with an RBI single in extra innings that gave his team the lead.
After the game, Jang recounted the decisive at-bat: “In the top of the 10th, I thought I just had to get a hit. In my previous plate appearance I got jammed on a low pitch, so I looked a little higher in the zone — and it worked.”
Jang has been consistent in the leadoff spot. He recorded multiple hits on April 30 and followed that with another strong outing on May 1. “As a leadoff, my priority is getting on base because we have quality hitters behind me,” he said. “But I won’t just try to take pitches. If a pitch comes into my zone, I’m going to swing aggressively.”
Lotte’s top of the order, including Jang, looks healthier than it did during its earlier slump. The lineup has been gradually regaining its form. “It’s a relief to see the offense come alive a bit this week,” Jang said. “We’re a hitting team, so I expect our cycle to trend upward.”
He added with a grin, “Tough April is behind us and it’s May now. I’m hoping the momentum shifts.”
Despite his recent success, Jang is keeping his composure. “I try not to ride the highs and lows,” he said. “I played well today, but I try to forget the good days and approach each day with a fresh mindset.”
Last season played a key role in building his mental toughness. “Last season helped me the most in my career. The confidence I gained then has been a huge asset as I prepared for this season,” he reflected.
“I don’t play to be a backup. I’ve always wanted to be a regular, and now that I have the opportunity, I plan to keep the momentum going,” he added, underscoring his determination to hold his spot.
Feeding off that confidence, Jang aims to become Lotte’s everyday center fielder and permanent leadoff hitter. His effort and intensity are on full display.
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