Jurado Powers Samsung to Crucial Victory with Dominant Start

Samsung Lions manager Park Jin-man credited pitcher Jurado with his team’s success in the Korean Series, stating “Jurado is to be thanked” after the right-hander delivered another dominant performance on the mound. The Lions manager repeatedly singled out Jurado’s name following the game, attributing the victory directly to the pitcher’s resilience and ability to deliver in crucial postseason moments, news.jkn.co.kr reported.

Jurado Delivers Seven Innings Despite Hand Injury

Jurado’s latest outing marked his third postseason appearance where he pitched into the seventh inning, a feat Park Jin-man described as essential to securing the win. During the sixth inning, Jurado was struck by a batted ball on his hand, yet he signaled that he could continue pitching. He remained on the mound and finished the inning, showcasing his determination to stay in the game.

Manager Park revealed that he had originally intended to remove Jurado after the sixth inning due to his pitch count. However, Jurado’s ability to continue pitching effectively not only extended his own performance but also conserved the team’s bullpen. This allowed the Lions to avoid using so many bullpen pitchers, a factor Park noted had a positive impact on the entire team’s performance and strategy.

Postseason Dominance for Jurado

This performance builds on Jurado’s record during the postseason. He previously started for the Lions in Games 2 and 5 of the playoffs against the KIA Tigers and was named the winning pitcher in both contests. His performance has now extended into the Korean Series, where he has led Samsung’s autumn baseball with three consecutive games of seven innings.

With his latest start, Jurado has now pitched seven innings in three consecutive postseason games. Manager Park contrasted this recent achievement with Jurado’s performance in July of last year, where the pitcher earned a shutout victory against the kt Wiz. Park expressed that seeing Jurado deliver in three consecutive postseason games is even more impressive than the earlier highlight.

Park’s Gratitude and Future Plans

Following the game, Park Jin-man conveyed a sense of deeper appreciation for Jurado’s contributions this year compared to the last. He mentioned a desire to repay Jurado after the season concludes, emphasizing the significant role Jurado has played in the team’s success.

Looking ahead, the Lions are preparing for Game 4 of the Korean Series, scheduled for the 7th at the same venue. The team has announced that rookie pitcher Jang Chan-hee will be the starter for this game. Manager Park explained that if Jang does not pitch long, the entire bullpen is prepared to step in. He also confirmed that Won Tae-in is slated to start Game 5, with the closer for that game to be determined based on the opposing lineup and in-game situation.

Despite holding a lead in the series, Park emphasized that the team will not be complacent. He stated the importance of maintaining their current momentum and focus as they aim for a third win in the series.

Jurado is to be thanked. The win was possible because he held on until the seventh inning in his third postseason appearance.

— Samsung Lions manager Park Jin-man

What’s Next for the Samsung Lions

The Samsung Lions will face off in Game 4 of the Korean Series on the 7th. The rookie Jang Chan-hee is set to make his start, with a fully prepared bullpen ready to support him.