Park Dong-won: LG Twins Star Embarks on First WBC Journey
LG Twins catcher Park Dong-won, 36, is preparing for his first appearance in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). He expressed his gratitude and determination as he departed for the national team camp in Okinawa, Japan, on February 15th.
A Veteran’s Perspective on a Historic Opportunity
Park Dong-won, a key player in LG Twins’ recent Korean Series championships (2023 & 2025), views his selection for the WBC as a significant honor. He acknowledged a shift in emotion, noting a sense of responsibility accompanying the excitement of joining the national team. “Being selected as a national representative is incredibly thankful. The WBC is the biggest competition, and I want to achieve good results,” he stated.
Navigating Challenges: Injuries and Team Dynamics
The national team has faced some setbacks with injuries to key players. Hanwha Eagles pitcher Moon Dong-ju was unable to participate due to a recent injury, and Hanwha Eagles catcher Choi Jae-hoon has been replaced by NC Dinos’ Kim Hyeong-jun. Park Dong-won acknowledged the impact of these changes. He expressed regret that Choi Jae-hoon couldn’t join, but welcomed Kim Hyeong-jun to the team, hoping they can operate together effectively.
Focus on Preparation, Not Free Agency
Park Dong-won is approaching a crucial period in his career, as he will be eligible for free agency after this season. Although, he emphasized that his focus remains solely on the WBC. “To be honest, the team didn’t even request about that. I was just told to come, and I said ‘thank you’,” he shared with a laugh. He considers representing his country in the WBC an unforgettable honor and is committed to giving his best effort.
A Consistent Performer
Throughout his KBO League career, spanning 1425 games, Park Dong-won has maintained a .256 batting average with 176 home runs and 695 RBIs. His performance was instrumental in LG Twins’ championship success. He also participated in evaluation games against Czech Republic and Japan in November, solidifying his position on the WBC roster.
Preparing for the Challenge
Park Dong-won participated in the national team’s first training camp in Saipan in January, focusing on strengthening his throwing arm in preparation for the WBC. He emphasized that his preparation for the WBC feels similar to preparing for a regular season, with the added significance of the international competition.
FAQ
- What is Park Dong-won’s current team? He plays for the LG Twins.
- What position does Park Dong-won play? He is a catcher.
- Has Park Dong-won ever participated in the WBC before? No, this is his first WBC appearance.
- Is Park Dong-won eligible for free agency soon? Yes, he will be eligible after the current season.
Pro Tip: Staying focused on the present moment is crucial for athletes facing both team commitments and individual career considerations. Park Dong-won’s dedication to the national team demonstrates this principle.
What are your thoughts on Park Dong-won’s chances in the WBC? Share your predictions in the comments below!
