KT Wiz No. 4 hitter Park Byung-ho was the centerpiece of the offense.
KT won the 16th game of the 2023 Shinhan Bank SOL KBO League against SSG 3-0 on Wednesday at SSG Landers Field in Incheon.
Foreign left-hander Wes Benjamin pitched eight innings of one-hit ball, striking out eight and walking none to improve to 15-5 on the season. It is the most wins by a starting pitcher in franchise history. The previous record of 15 wins was set by foreign pitcher Despine in 2020.
After the game, Lee Kang-cheol said, “Starting pitcher Benjamin pitched his best with Jang Jang-woo and laid the foundation for the victory. Congratulations on reaching 15 wins (tying the club’s all-time starting win record).”
In the batting lineup, Park Byung-ho, who started as the No. 4 designated hitter, proved to be the difference maker.
KT starter Benjamin pitched a perfect game until the fifth inning. However, SSG starter Kim Kwang-hyun struggled with the KT bats. Then, in the top of the sixth inning, Kim Min-hyuk drew a walk. Alford singled up the middle and Hwang Jae-gyun grounded out to shortstop, but Park Byung-ho hit a single to left.
Byung-ho Park hit a two-run home run in the top of the ninth inning to account for all of the offense on the day. “The batting lineup was led by veteran Park Byung-ho. In a tight situation, we were able to win the game with a leadoff single and a game-winning home run.”
“We had a tough game against SSG last week, so we really needed a win today, but Benjamin pitched really well, and I wanted to do my part today as a center fielder in a tight game,” Park said.
“I didn’t hit the home run exactly right, but it was powerful, so I trusted the distance of the 토토사이트 ballpark, and I’m glad I was able to help the team solidify the win,” he said.
With the home run, Park became the KBO’s all-time home run leader. He is tied with Lee Dae-ho, who retired with 374.
“I’m also proud of my third place in the career rankings,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that I didn’t have many long balls this season, but there are many important games at the end of the season, so I’ll do my best to help.”