On the latest episode of TV Chosun's 'Baekban Journey with Heo Young-man,' former baseball player Lee Jong-beom shared insights into his life and family, including his relationship with his son, MLB player Lee Jung-hoo.
Lee Jong-beom, who retired from professional baseball 15 years ago, reminisced about his career, saying, "The cheers and applause from the fans still linger in my mind." Having spent 46 years in baseball, he recently ventured into entertainment as a coach on the show 'Strongest Baseball,' but the outcome was not as expected.
He expressed his disappointment, saying, "I had long-term plans for 'Strongest Baseball,' but it ended abruptly, leaving me without a place." He humorously asked for someone to read his palm, joking, "My life isn't going well."
Reflecting on his early days in baseball, Lee shared how he practiced by hitting a modified tire his father made for him, as there were no proper facilities. "Even when the sound of hitting the tire echoed, the neighbors never complained. Instead, they would ask if I was okay if they didn't hear it," he recalled, highlighting the community's support for his baseball dreams. He mentioned spending 15 out of 24 hours playing baseball.
Lee also updated viewers on his son, Lee Jung-hoo, who is currently in Arizona for spring training. When asked about his son's contract, he proudly stated, "It's $113 million over six years. He started strong last year, faced some struggles, but made a comeback."
When asked if his son sends him allowance, Lee humorously replied, "He's still young, so I don't ask for money. My father did the same with me." He added that his wife enjoys cooking for their son more than for him.
The Lee family is a true baseball family, with Lee Jong-beom, his son, and son-in-law Ko Woo-seok all involved in the sport. "My daughter has a son now. If he plays baseball too, it means I'll be involved in baseball until I die," he joked.
Reflecting on his career, Lee Jong-beom admitted, "Things I used to do are no longer possible, and I can't compete with the younger players. Hearing my cheer song brings tears to my eyes."
Reported by Kim Eun-jung, TenAsia eun@tenasia.co.kr