The Samsung Lions are one step closer to their first Korean Series championship in 12 years, thanks to a masterful pitching performance from Ariel Hurado. The Lions defeated the KT Wiz 5-1 in Game 3 of the best-of-seven series on October 6, taking a commanding 2-1 lead. MK Sports reported that Hurado’s dominant outing provided the crucial victory the team needed.
Lions Move Within One Win of First Title Since 2014
With the win, the Lions have positioned themselves firmly on the brink of their first championship since 2014. The historical data is strongly in their favor; teams that win Game 3 in a tied series have gone on to capture the title 88.9% of the time (16 out of 18 instances), according to league records. Samsung now stands at 2-1 in the series, needing just one more win in up to three remaining games to secure the championship.
The victory also solidifies the momentum the Lions have built throughout the postseason. After finishing the regular season as the second-best team with an 83-58-3 record, the Lions defeated the Kia Tigers in the first round of the playoffs. They then overcame the Doosan Bears in a thrilling 3-2 series victory to advance to the Korean Series, where they have now taken control against the Wiz.
Hurado’s Seven-Inning Masterpiece Propels Lions
The story of the game was unequivocally Ariel Hurado. The Samsung Lions’ starting pitcher delivered a performance that was both effective and resilient, pitching a complete seven innings to earn the win. Hurado threw 108 pitches, allowing just six hits and one run while striking out six batters. His outing was a stark contrast to his high-pitch early innings, where he threw 61 pitches by the end of the third inning yet managed to go deep into the game.
“I feel like I helped the team win, and I’m very happy,” Hurado said after the game, MK Sports reported. When asked about his approach to pitch count, he added, “Instead of thinking about reducing the number of pitches, I wanted to pitch aggressively.” This mindset was key to his ability to navigate through the KT Wiz lineup and keep the Lions’ bullpen fresh.
Pitcher Endures Hit-by-Pitch to Secure the Win
Hurado’s determination was put to the test in the top of the sixth inning. He was struck on the back of his right hand by a line drive off the bat of KT Wiz hitter Sam Hiliord. The scare did not slow him down. After the play, catcher Kang Min-ho asked him if his hand was okay.
“Hyung-nim, I know you’re playing hurt, so I have to keep pitching,” Hurado recounted, referring to Kang’s own recent injury struggles. “It wasn’t a direct hit, so I’m fine. Fortunately, it worked out.” His ability to shake off the injury and continue pitching was a testament to his toughness and was a major factor in the team’s win.
Manager Praises Hurado’s Resilience
Lions manager Park Jin-man praised Hurado’s performance both on and off the mound, highlighting his role in the team’s success. “Hurado pitched into the seventh inning for the third time in the playoffs this season. We won because of him,” Park said. He expressed his concern after Hurado was hit by the pitch but noted the pitcher’s insistence on continuing.
“I was very worried when he got hit in the sixth inning, but he said he could throw more. I wanted to take him out, but he held me off until the seventh inning,” the manager explained. “Thanks to him, the bullpen management became very easy. We didn’t have to use many relief pitchers, and it had a positive impact on the entire team.” Park also hinted at the need to manage Hurado’s workload carefully as the season concludes.
A Relentless Postseason for the Lions’ Ace
Hurado’s excellence in Game 3 is part of a remarkable postseason run. He has been a workhorse for the Lions, already winning two games in the playoffs and earning a playoff MVP award for his contributions.
Hurado noted the accumulated innings he has logged, which includes his participation in the World Baseball Classic earlier this year. “Last year, I pitched 218.1 innings in the regular and postseason combined, and I also played in the WBC. It was very tiring,” he said.
Focus Shifts to the Ultimate Prize
While Hurado was named a candidate for the Korean Series MVP, he quickly shifted the focus away from individual accolades. “Thank you very much for the nomination, but MVP is not my goal. I would be grateful if we can win the championship and I can get the MVP then,” he stated, making it clear that the team’s ultimate objective is the title.
The next game, Game 4, will be a critical contest. If the Lions win, they will claim their first championship since 2014.
“Today’s early pitches had a high pitch count, so I thought he might finish around the sixth inning, but he kept giving me strength. Thanks to Hurado, we didn’t have to use many relief pitchers, and it had a good effect on the whole team.” — Samsung Lions manager Park Jin-man
Earlier coverage: Ariel Jurado Leads Samsung Lions to Game 3 Victory Over KT Wiz in KBO Korean Series
