LG manager explains controversial intentional walk in tight game

LG Twins manager Yeom Kyeong-yeop addressed a contentious decision in the ninth inning of the game against the NC Dinos, where pitcher Son Ju-young issued an intentional walk.

The situation arose in the top of the ninth with one out and runners on second and third, with LG leading 3-2. Instead of pitching to NC batter Kwon Hee-dong, Son Ju-young was instructed to intentionally walk him, loading the bases.

This move was met with surprise and criticism, as it put another runner on base with the potential tying run already on third. An intentional walk, often called a "four-pitch walk," is typically used strategically to set up a force play or to face a weaker hitter. However, in this high-leverage situation, the decision to put another runner on base was questioned by many observers.

Manager Yeom Kyeong-yeop explained that the decision was a strategic one, aimed at creating a force play at any base. He emphasized that the team had confidence in their ability to get the next batter out and secure the win, despite the added pressure of the bases-loaded situation.