Bae Ji-hwan, who was surprised by IU's crowd

Having started preparing for the season early in order to secure a position as the main player in his team for the 2024 season, Bae left for the U.S. via Incheon International Airport on Wednesday. "There is now one more person who will take responsibility. I think that responsibility will be reflected in the performance he will show in the baseball stadium." "Since I played in the full season just once last year, I expect to see better performances this year based on that experience," Bae said. 

A huge crowd gathered at Incheon International Airport. This is because countless fans visited Incheon International Airport to see popular singer and actress IU departing for Milan to participate in the fashion show. Coincidentally, Bae Ji-hwan arrived at the airport through massive crowds as his departure time was similar to that of Bae Ji-hwan, who was heading to Los Angeles. When asked if she was surprised by the huge crowd, Bae said, "It feels like you are here to see IU." After the interview, Bae also signed autographs for her fans and started a fan service.

"I had a ligament problem, but I think I got better after taking a rest. I went through rehabilitation, and I feel that it is really good," said Bae, who suffered from an injury to his left ankle last year. 

Bae Ji-hwan, who made his Major League debut in 2022, recorded a batting average of .244 (88 hits in 367 at-bats) with two homers, 38 RBIs, 59 runs and 27 stolen bases OPS.628 in 121 games over two seasons. Last year, he spent almost the full season in the big leagues, batting .231 (77 hits in 334 at-bats) with two homers, 32 RBIs, 54 runs and 24 stolen bases OPS.608 in 111 games as a second baseman and center fielder. 

With many Korean players including Lee Jung-hoo (San Francisco Giants), Kim Ha-sung and Ko Woo-suk (San Diego Padres) set to play in the National League this year, Bae said, "Unless you are a catcher, whether you are a second baseman, center fielder, or any position, I think you should have at least a minimum offensive capability in the Major League." I received many opportunities as a rookie last year, but I don't have any such opportunities this year, so I need to develop myself to secure a position in various fields as an offense and defense line. I'm so glad to see more Korean players join me. If I go to the Minor League, I will be a complete stealer, so I have a strong desire to play in the Major League as well." 

In order to show a better performance this year, Bae will move to the U.S. early on to prepare for the season. "I decided to move to the U.S. early because I wanted to train in warm weather," Bae said. "I plan to join Heo Il as a university coach in Los Angeles for an outdoor training. I plan to meet (Kang) Jung-ho hyung for a bit. I plan to join the spring camp early to prepare for the spring camp in mid-February," Bae said. 

"The top priority this year is not to get hurt. I don't want to go on the injured list anymore. I want to stay on the active roster all year long and see the result," Bae said ahead of the new season.

BY: 안전놀이터