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Samsung's Choi Hyoung-woo hits record 2,623rd career hit

From Hankyoreh · (4m ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Samsung Lions' Choi Hyoung-woo set a new KBO League record for most career hits with 2,623.
  • Choi achieved the milestone by going 4-for-4 with a home run, surpassing Seon Ah-seop's previous record.
  • He currently leads the league in several other career categories, including doubles, RBIs, and total bases.

In a thrilling display of enduring skill and consistency, Samsung Lions' veteran slugger Choi Hyoung-woo has etched his name in the KBO League history books, smashing the all-time hits record. On a day where he delivered a masterful performance, going a perfect 4-for-4 with a home run, Choi surpassed Seon Ah-seop to claim the top spot with an astounding 2,623 career hits.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to Choi's longevity and unwavering dedication to the game. Since his re-debut with the Samsung Lions in 2008, he has been a cornerstone of the team, stringing together an incredible 13 consecutive seasons with 100 or more hits. His contributions were instrumental in the Lions' dominant era, including their four consecutive Korean Series championships from 2011 to 2014.

I'm just happy the team won, more than the record.

โ€” Choi Hyoung-wooAfter setting the new career hits record.

Even after a brief stint with the Kia Tigers, Choi's return to the Lions this season, despite being the league's oldest active player, has seen him continue to perform at an elite level. His ability to consistently deliver clutch hits and maintain such a high standard of play at his age is nothing short of inspirational. He not only holds the hits record but also leads in career doubles, RBIs, and total bases, solidifying his status as one of the greatest offensive forces in KBO history.

Speaking after the game, Choi Hyoung-woo expressed his joy, stating, "I'm just happy the team won, more than the record." He also shared his ambition to reach 1,800 career RBIs, a goal that further underscores his relentless drive. This record-breaking performance, coupled with the Samsung Lions' dramatic walk-off victory thanks to Lewin Diaz's game-winning homer, made for an unforgettable day at the ballpark, celebrating a true legend of Korean baseball.

I want to set a career record of 1,800 RBIs during my remaining playing career. I want to keep driving in runs.

โ€” Choi Hyoung-wooExpressing his future goals in the sport.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.