Returning pitcher An Woo-jin aims to regain form after injury
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Kiwoom Heroes pitcher An Woo-jin, returning from injury, reflected on his performance in the first half of the 2026 KBO season.
- An Woo-jin rated his own performance as 50 out of 100, acknowledging the challenges of his comeback.
- He expressed gratitude for being able to pitch healthy and aims to regain his previous form.
An Woo-jin, the star pitcher for the Kiwoom Heroes, has reflected on his return to the mound after an injury, giving himself a score of 50 out of 100 for his performance in the first half of the 2026 KBO season. The 27-year-old acknowledged the difficulties inherent in coming back from a significant injury.
It's been a while since I've been to the All-Star Game, and many people welcomed me.
Speaking at the '2026 Shinhan SOL KBO All-Star Game' held at Jamsil Baseball Stadium, An Woo-jin noted the warm reception he received from fans. "It's been a while since I've been to the All-Star Game, and many people welcomed me," he said. He observed the changing landscape of the league, remarking, "There used to be many seniors, but now there are many juniors, so it's a time to get to know them better."
Despite the challenges, An Woo-jin expressed profound gratitude for his current health. "I am grateful that I can pitch healthily," he stated, emphasizing his primary goal: to recapture the form that made him one of the league's top pitchers. He is determined to work towards regaining his peak performance after the setback.
There used to be many seniors, but now there are many juniors, so it's a time to get to know them better.
The pitcher's self-assessment highlights his realistic approach to his comeback. While acknowledging the need for improvement, his focus remains on consistent health and performance. Fans are hopeful that An Woo-jin can indeed rediscover his dominant pitching style as the season progresses.
I am grateful that I can pitch healthily.
Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.