KIA Tigers Aim for Fall Baseball Under Manager Lee Beom-ho

The KIA Tigers are setting their sights on a return to the postseason, with manager Lee Beom-ho clearly stating his ambition to compete in fall baseball during the 2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League season.

Strategic Shift for 2026

Addressing the media at the ‘2026 Shinhan SOL KBO League Media Day & Fan Fest’ held at Lotte Hotel World in Seoul on March 26th, Coach Lee emphasized a renewed focus for the team. He stated, I will definitely make sure to play fall baseball. He too acknowledged past experiences, saying, I have experienced both glory and frustration over the past two years, and pledged to forget everything and create a recent team to achieve better results.

This season will see a strategic adjustment, moving beyond a purely offensive approach. Coach Lee explained the team will try to compete by adding defense, bullpen, and players’ earnestness. The goal is to build upon existing strengths while addressing key weaknesses.

Key Players and Opening Day Plans

The Tigers will seem to veteran pitcher Yang Hyun-jong and captain Na Seong-beom for leadership. Na Seong-beom affirmed his readiness, stating, I am currently in incredibly good physical condition, and expressed his commitment to help the team by maintaining good condition throughout the season. Yang Hyun-jong also voiced his determination, saying, I definitely wish to win every game I pitch.

James Nail is slated to be the starting pitcher for the season opener against the SSG Landers on March 28th.

New Uniform and Fan Engagement

The team is also introducing a new third uniform, to be worn on weekend games, with the intention of regaining the reputation of the past. Coach Lee explained, As this year’s catchphrase is ‘Hot again,’ this is a uniform with the meaning of regaining the reputation of the past. He added, We will achieve good results in the weekend games and provide the best product to our fans.

Media Day Presence

The Media Day event saw participation from representatives of all ten KBO clubs, including players like LG’s Park Hae-min and Lim Chan-gyu, and Samsung’s Koo Ja-wook and Kang Min-ho.

Looking Ahead

The KIA Tigers will begin their 2026 season with an away series against the SSG Landers, followed by a home series against the NC Dinos starting April 3rd.

Reporter Joo Hong-cheol