Description
This year is no longer difficult."
Kiwoom Heroes manager Hong Won-ki expressed his disappointment ahead of the match against the Gocheok SSG Landers on the 7th and reported the injury of foreign hitter Ronnie Dawson. "It's hard to go together this year because the cruciate ligament is partially damaged," head coach Hong said.
Dawson, who made his KBO League debut as a substitute for Kiwoom last year, showed impressive performance this season after successfully renewing his contract. He recorded a batting average of 0.330 with 11 homers, 57 RBIs and 69 runs in 95 games, which was the best performance among foreign hitters from 10 teams.
However, he suffered a serious injury in the match against the NC Dinos in Gocheok on June 31. He was diagnosed with partial damage to his right anterior cruciate ligament after a big collision with his teammate outfielder Lee Yong-kyu during defense in the outfield. Kiwoom conducted a total of four hospital checkups through June 7 to closely monitor Dawson's physical condition, but ultimately decided that it would be difficult for him to return to the hospital this year.
An official from Kiwoom said, "Dawson's injury condition is about halfway between Grade 2 and 3."
"Based on Dawson's opinion, I have decided to return to the U.S. on Friday (Sept. 9). It will be up to him to decide whether to undergo rehabilitation or surgery," Hong said.
Coach Hong said, "Future issues such as finding alternative foreign hitters are now the part of the club. It is my job to focus on the game with the remaining players."
Kiwoom is filling Dawson's vacancy through Lim Byung-wook and Bae Sang-kwon, who are currently backup outfielders. Coach Hong said, "Im Byung-wook and Bae Sang-kwon are doing their part well. I don't know what decision will be made in the future, but I think the two players and other alternative resources will fill the gap well at the moment."
BY: 메이저사이트