Samsung Lions star Koo Ja-wook has sustained a 0.5-to-1-centimeter tear to his left hamstring, leaving the team’s postseason push in jeopardy as the regular season draws to a close, mk.co.kr reported.
Samsung Lions Captain Sidelined by Left Hamstring Tear
The injury occurred during the bottom of the first inning on September 30 in Daegu during a game against the Hanwha Eagles. After hitting a double to deep center field with two outs, Koo felt sharp pain in his leg and walked off the field with team coaches. Park Seung-kyu replaced him as a runner, and subsequent clinical evaluations at a hospital confirmed the 0.5-to-1-centimeter damage to the biceps femoris and long head tendon.
Samsung officials announced that the outfielder received an initial injection treatment and will undergo MRI scans and follow-up examinations two weeks later to chart a recovery path. The timing presents a major scheduling hurdle for the organization, as the KBO postseason is slated to begin as early as October 14.
Samsung Manages Schedule to Aid Koo's Recovery
Because Koo’s two-week reassessment window overlaps directly with the opening of the fall tournament, team staff cannot guarantee when or if the veteran hitter will return to the lineup.
Samsung, currently holding second place in the standings, intends to manage its remaining schedule carefully. The club aims to secure a direct berth to the Korean Series or extend series play to maximize recovery days for its captain.
Familiar Postseason Absence Shadows the Lions
The franchise has played many high-stakes games without its offensive leader. During the 2024 postseason against the LG Twins, Koo suffered a left knee injury while attempting a stolen base. Samsung advanced to the Korean Series last year but ultimately fell short against the Kia Tigers.
Offensive Production Left Behind in the Lineup
Across 114 games this season, he posted a .371 batting average with 15 home runs and 102 RBIs, recording an exceptional 1.039 OPS while leading the league in hit rate.
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