Dramatic Victory: Breakers Triumph Over Dongwon Science and Technology University in 'Strongest Baseball'

In a thrilling episode of JTBC's 'Strongest Baseball,' pitcher Yoon Seok-min was replaced in the top of the 5th inning due to injury concerns. He expressed his disappointment, saying, "I regret missing a routine play."

The 120th episode, aired on the 29th, showcased an intense match between the Breakers and Dongwon Science and Technology University's baseball team, with player recruitment on the line.

During the bottom of the 4th inning, the Breakers extended their lead to 6-3 with a long hit by batter Yoon Seok-min. Dongwon Science and Technology University's coach, Lee Moon-han, brought in ace left-handed fireballer Go Jun-hyuk to prevent further scoring. Yoon Seok-min returned to pitch in the top of the 5th but was replaced due to injury concerns. He shared his frustration, stating, "I missed a routine play and hope to pitch longer next time."

In the bottom of the 5th, the Breakers widened the gap to 7-3 with Choi Jin-haeng's sacrifice fly. Coach Lee Jong-beom aimed to secure the victory by bringing in Kim Tae-kyun as a pinch hitter. Although Kim's presence shifted the atmosphere, Dongwon Science and Technology University's dugout humorously opted for an intentional walk.

In the top of the 6th, the Breakers conceded a run to Dongwon Science and Technology University but failed to score in the bottom half. In the top of the 7th, with the score at 7-4, pitcher Kwon Hyuk threw four pitches before leaving the mound, drawing sympathy. The next pitcher, Yoon Gil-hyun, allowed a timely hit to catcher Kim Woo-sung, conceding a run and creating a bases-loaded, two-out situation, heightening the tension.

Facing new pitcher Yoon Hee-sang, Kim Chang-rin delivered a hit to left-center, allowing Dongwon Science and Technology University to overturn the game to 8-7. Yoon Hee-sang, determined not to make another mistake, finished the lengthy top of the 7th without further runs and continued to pitch effectively in the 8th inning.

In the bottom of the 8th, the Breakers' strategic move by coach Lee Jong-beom paid off. With two outs and runners on first and second, Kang Min-guk, identified as the key player, stepped up to the plate. Contrary to the opposing team's expectations, Kang delivered a stunning three-run homer, sparking jubilation.

Caster Han Myung-jae exclaimed, "Kang Min-guk's game-changing three-run homer! What a game!" Coach Lee Jong-beom embraced Kang, praising his "nice batting." Coach Shim Soo-chang remarked, "A masterstroke in the 9th spot," to which Lee responded, "Min-guk really hit well."

With Kang Min-guk's home run, the Breakers secured a 10-8 victory in their first official game, acquiring Dongwon Science and Technology University's catcher Kim Woo-sung. Yoon Hee-sang, who pitched with all his might until the end, expressed his overwhelming joy, saying, "Words can't describe this. I felt like I was back in my playing days."

Commentator Jung Min-chul shared his unique perspective, stating, "This game will be memorable, regardless of professional or amateur status." MVP Kang Min-guk expressed his gratitude, saying, "Our strong determination led to this dramatic victory. I've never done an interview like this, and I'm thankful to do it in front of my wife and baby."

Coach Lee Jong-beom acknowledged the weight of his role, attributing the dramatic comeback victory to his players, saying, "The players made this happen."

Reporter: Se-yoon Jung, TenAsia yoon@tenasia.co.kr