Samsung Lions face bullpen crisis ahead of playoffs

The Samsung Lions are facing significant roster challenges heading into their postseason matchup against the KIA Tigers. While star hitter Koo Ja-wook has returned to the lineup as a designated hitter following a hamstring injury, the team has suffered a major blow to its pitching staff.

Closer Kim Jae-yun, who led the league with 35 saves during the regular season, has been ruled out of the playoffs due to a grade 1 serratus anterior muscle injury. Medical evaluations indicate he requires approximately two weeks of rest and treatment. The loss is compounded by injuries to left-handed relievers Baek Jeong-hyeon and Lee Seung-hyeon, leaving the team with limited left-handed bullpen options.

Samsung manager Park Jin-man plans to implement a collective closer system rather than relying on a single individual, noting that Lee Seung-min will be a key resource in high-leverage situations. The first game of the playoff series is scheduled to take place at Daegu Samsung Lions Park.