SSG Landers pitcher Lee Jun-gi set for starting debut

SSG Landers pitcher Lee Jun-gi is set to make his first professional starting appearance on August 28 against the KIA Tigers. The decision follows the implementation of an expanded roster policy, allowing the team to evaluate young talent as they prepare for the next season.

Lee, a right-handed pitcher, has shown significant improvement in the Futures League, recording a 2.75 ERA over 16 games. Coaching staff noted his increased fastball velocity, reaching the mid-140 km/h range, and improved vertical movement on his slider and forkball following training at Japan's NextBase Lab.

SSG manager Lee Seung-yuong emphasized that the decision to promote Lee was based on demonstrated competitiveness. He stated that promoting a player without sufficient skill would be a lack of respect toward the fans. The move comes as the team manages injuries to foreign pitchers and looks to assess depth in their pitching rotation.