Won Sung-joon returns after 325 days, hits go-ahead RBI single for Kiwoom Heroes

Won Sung-joon of the KBO's Kiwoom Heroes marked his return to the first team after 325 days with a crucial go-ahead RBI single against the Hanwha Eagles on June 13. The 26-year-old outfielder's hit in the seventh inning broke a 1-1 tie, ultimately leading the Heroes to a 3-1 victory.

Won's journey back to the top league is a testament to his perseverance. Undrafted out of high school and college, he joined the Heroes as a developmental player in 2024. After struggling in his initial first-team appearances, he was moved back to developmental status. However, a stellar performance in the Futures League (minor league) in May, where he posted a 1.307 OPS and earned the "Futures Rookie Award," earned him another shot.

"I was very nervous when I first came to the stadium today," Won said, crediting veteran teammate Seo Geon-chang for his support. "Seo Geon-chang senior told me, 'Do it without regret, whether you do well or not.' Thanks to his words, I could swing my bat with confidence, and I have no regrets."

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I was very nervous when I first came to the stadium today. Seo Geon-chang senior told me, 'Do it without regret, whether you do well or not.' Thanks to his words, I could swing my bat with confidence, and I have no regrets.

Seo Geon-chang himself is a notable figure in KBO history, having achieved the league's first-ever 200-hit season in 2014 and winning the MVP award. Won also expressed gratitude to coaches Jang Young-seok and Park Byung-ho for helping him improve his hitting in the minor league.

Meanwhile, in other KBO action, Park Seung-gyu, a former high school teammate of Won's, also hit a go-ahead RBI hit for the Samsung Lions. The home team proved dominant on June 13, winning all five games played across the league.

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Do it without regret, whether you do well or not.