KIA pitcher Lee Eui-ri achieves dramatic velocity increase

KIA Tigers' left-handed pitcher Lee Eui-ri is undergoing a remarkable transformation in his 2026 season, showcasing a dramatic surge in performance and velocity. After recovering from elbow ligament reconstruction surgery, Lee initially returned as a starting pitcher but faced the worst slump of his career.

Seeking to improve his performance, Lee sought training at a facility in Japan. Upon his return to Korea, he transitioned to a relief pitcher role in the latter half of the season. This change proved pivotal, as he began to consistently throw at higher speeds.

His velocity has since climbed dramatically, reaching an impressive 158 km/h. This significant increase in speed, surpassing that of legendary pitcher Sun Dong-yol, marks a career-best for Lee and has positioned him as a key closer for the KIA Tigers. The dramatic turnaround highlights his resilience and adaptability in overcoming injury and performance challenges.