Second straight shock comeback loss weighs on Kiwoom Heroes, rookie pitcher Park Jun-hyun under pressure

The Kiwoom Heroes are reeling after suffering a devastating 5-4 walk-off loss to the Lotte Giants on August 19, marking their second consecutive defeat where they surrendered a late lead. Manager Seol Jong-hoon voiced his disappointment, lamenting the team's inability to close out games, especially after a promising comeback earlier in the match.

"We gave them a message, but..." Seol stated before the August 20 game, reflecting on the previous day's outcome. The Heroes had fought back from a 3-0 deficit, even taking a 4-3 lead in the eighth inning thanks to a two-run double by Seo Geon-chang. However, the Giants managed to tie the game in the ninth and then secure the victory with a walk-off hit, leaving the Heroes stunned.

This pattern of losing leads has become a significant concern for the team. The pressure now falls heavily on the shoulders of young pitcher Park Jun-hyun, who is seen as a key player in stabilizing the bullpen. The consecutive losses and the manner in which they occurred have put the Heroes in a difficult position as they continue their season.

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We gave them a message, but...