KIA Tigers’ Yoon Do-hyun Shines in Debut Game

KIA Tigers infielder Yoon Do-hyun (21) made a remarkable debut in a 2024 professional baseball game against the Samsung Lions held at Gwangju-Kia Champions Field on the 23rd. He recorded 3 hits and 1 RBI in 4 at-bats, contributing to the team’s 5–3 win and earning the outstanding player title.

Yoon Do-hyun’s performance was a long-awaited moment for fans, as he had been plagued by injuries in previous years. He was called up by coach Lee Beom-ho after winning the regular season, and he did not disappoint. Playing as a second batter and third baseman, he hit a clean double in the first inning, his first professional hit in three years.

In the third inning, with two outs, Kim Do-young got on base with a hit to right, and Yoon Do-hyun hit an infield hit. In the 5th inning, Kim Do-young got on base with a walk and succeeded in stealing his 40th base, and Yoon Do-hyun hit his first RBI in time.

After the game, Yoon Do-hyun expressed his gratitude to fans and director Beom-ho Lee. “I rehabbed with the intention of coming back as much as possible during the year. It was difficult because I was disappointed that my skills did not improve in the second team. I came into the first team because the fans had high expectations and support. I am honored and grateful that the manager made me a second starter.”

Yoon Do-hyun also praised his teammate Kim Do-young, saying, “As a friend, he is amazing. I thought I would rise fast and give a good performance. I thought that having Do-young would be a strength for me as well.”

Looking ahead, Yoon Do-hyun expressed his desire to perform well in the Korean series. “I’m glad I got 3 hits today, but the quality of batted balls was not at all what I wanted. I was lucky. The hits went on a good course. I can be a pinch runner, a pinch hitter, and a big fielder that’s all. A few matches, but for the Korean series, I have to show 100% of what I have.”