LG Pitcher Kim Jin-sung Ties KBO Record for Career Holds

LG Twins veteran pitcher Kim Jin-sung has reached a significant milestone, tying the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) record for most career holds with his 177th.

Kim achieved this feat on Sunday during a game against the Kiwoom Heroes. Entering the game in a high-pressure situation in the eighth inning with runners on base, he successfully retired one batter before being replaced by the closer. This performance secured his 17th hold of the season and 177th of his career, matching the record previously set by Ahn Ji-man.

Kim's journey to this record is remarkable, characterized by perseverance through adversity. Unlike Ahn Ji-man, who spent his entire career with one club, Kim's path was tumultuous. He was released by SK (now SSG) in 2006 and Nexen (now Kiwoom) in 2011. It wasn't until 2013, at the age of 28, that he debuted in the KBO with the NC Dinos. Even after a stint as a closer with NC, he faced another release in 2021.

LG provided Kim with a lifeline in 2022, and he has since become a crucial part of their bullpen. He played a significant role in LG's 2023 championship run, recording 21 holds with a 2.18 ERA in 80 appearances. Last season, he posted 33 holds, ranking second in the league. This season, he leads the league with 17 holds in 49 games. With one more hold, Kim Jin-sung will stand alone as the KBO's all-time leader.

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Relief pitcher Kim Jin-sung and others did their jobs well, allowing us to win with our defense.