Samsung Lions Take 2-1 Lead Against KT Wiz in KBO Korea Series

The Samsung Lions secured a victory against the KT Wiz to take a 2-1 lead in the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO Korea Series. The ongoing championship matchup has delivered intense action, marked by standout performances, roster adjustments due to injuries, and memorable postseason milestones.

Entering Game 3, the KT Wiz welcomed back Kim Sang-su to the lineup but suffered setbacks with the losses of Choi Won-jun and Heo Kyoung-min from their starting roster. Despite the compressed postseason schedule and roster challenges, Samsung manager Park Jin-man expressed confidence in his players, noting that the team remains unfazed and maintains an upbeat clubhouse atmosphere as the series returned home following a 1-1 tie.

The series opened at Suwon KT Wiz Park with an 8-7 victory for the KT Wiz, propelled by home runs from Ahn Hyun-min, Kim Hyun-soo, and catcher Han Seung-taek. For Han, the game marked a major personal milestone. After going hitless in eight prior postseason at-bats during his time with the KIA Tigers, the 32-year-old catcher recorded his first career postseason hit and home run in the fifth inning off Samsung pitcher Jang Chan-hee.

Reflecting on his historic performance, Han noted that his primary focus was simply helping his team succeed. "I knew I hadn't gotten a hit in the postseason before. It wasn't that it was particularly good because it was a home run; I was even happier because it was a hit that could help the team win," Han told reporters. He added that he adjusted his timing at the plate after striking out in his first two at-bats.

Han's journey to this moment includes experiencing two Korea Series championships with the KIA Tigers in 2017 and 2024, though he struggled to secure regular playing time. After signing a four-year contract with KT in November of last year, he enjoyed a breakout regular season with 128 games played, eventually earning the starting catcher role for the championship series. Alongside his offensive contributions, Han played a key defensive role in Game 1 by stopping a stolen base attempt in the first inning and guiding starting pitcher Daniel Davis through six innings.

The championship battle has also highlighted veteran milestones and logistical enthusiasm. Veteran pitcher Woo Kyu-min, who joined the KBO in 2003, made his long-awaited Korea Series debut during Game 2 in a loss to Samsung, marking his first appearance in the finals after 24 professional seasons. Meanwhile, the high demand for tickets has driven fans to pack pubs and virtual ballparks to experience the games, though high enthusiasm has also sparked concerns over exorbitant ticket scalping prices.

As the championship series continues, both teams are adjusting to player fatigue and physical toll. Historically, winning Game 1 has carried significant momentum in the KBO, with teams taking the opener going on to win the championship in over 73 percent of instances. However, with Samsung now holding a 2-1 lead following Game 3, the trajectory of the series remains highly competitive as the remaining games approach.