Lotte Giants Baseball Team Faces Challenges and Adjustments Ahead of 2026 Season
The Lotte Giants baseball team concluded the first phase of their spring training in Taiwan on February 19, 2026, amidst a scandal involving four players and a return to Miyazaki, Japan, for the second phase of training. The team is now focused on regaining momentum before the start of the regular season.
Illegal Gambling Scandal Disrupts Training
A controversy erupted when photos surfaced on Taiwanese social media showing four Lotte Giants players – Travel Seung-min, Na Seung-yeop, Kim Dong-hyeok, and Kim Se-min – visiting a gambling establishment on their day off. While the establishment was legally operating, the Giants deemed the visit inappropriate and a violation of team conduct. The players were immediately sent home and are facing disciplinary action from both the team and the KBO (Korea Baseball Organization).
Adjustments to Roster and Training Schedule
Despite the disruption, the remaining players continued with their training schedule, including practice games against the Taiwan Power Company (CPBL) Taikang Hawks, winning both matches 6-3 and 11-4. The team is using the second phase of spring training in Miyazaki to assess player performance and refine strategies.
Pitching and Position Player Evaluations
Evaluations are underway for potential fifth starting pitchers, including Park Jin and Kim Jin-wook, with positive initial assessments. The team is also solidifying its infield lineup, with Han Dong-hee at first base, Han Tae-yang at second base, and Park Chan-hyung or Kim Min-sung at third base. Competition continues for the shortstop position between Jeon Min-jae and Lee Ho-jun. Son Ho-young’s transition to center field is also being evaluated.
New Additions and Departures
The Giants have added veteran infielder Park Seung-wook and rookie infielders Lee Seo-jun and rookie outfielder Kim Han-hol to the Miyazaki camp roster. Pitcher Choi Chung-yeon has been moved to the second-team camp. Injured players Kim Won-jung (rib fracture) and Choi Jun-yong (rib strain) will join the team in Miyazaki.
Focus on Preparation and Team Conduct
The team acknowledges the need to move forward from the recent scandal and emphasizes the importance of disciplined conduct and focused preparation for the 2026 season. The Giants will play a series of practice games against both Korean and Japanese professional teams, including the Seibu Lions, Yomiuri Giants, Doosan Bears, Orix Buffaloes, Chiba Lotte Marines, and SSG Landers.
FAQ
- What disciplinary action will the players involved in the gambling incident face? The players have been sent home and are facing disciplinary action from both the Lotte Giants and the KBO.
- Where is the Lotte Giants’ second spring training camp located? The second phase of spring training is taking place in Miyazaki, Japan.
- What is the team’s schedule for practice games in Miyazaki? The Giants will play seven practice games against Korean and Japanese professional teams.
