The San Francisco Giants' new outfielder, Lee Jung-hoo, made a strong impression at his induction ceremony.
The outfielder was inducted into the Giants' clubhouse at Oracle Park in San Francisco, California, on June 16 (KST).
He was introduced by President of Baseball Operations Farhan Zaidi and his agent, Scott Boras.
His greeting was in English, and it was quite lengthy.
"Hello Giants," Lee said, and then proceeded to share his thoughts in English, albeit not fluently.
He introduced himself as "the grandson of the wind in Korea," and thanked owners Johnson and Larry Bear, president Farhan Zaidi and general manager Pete Putilla, agent Scott Boras, and his father, coach Lee Jong-beom, and mother, Yeon-hee Jung.
He revealed that he has always loved the Bay Area (referring to San Francisco and the surrounding area), and his determination to win was evident as he chanted, "I am here to win."
"I will always do my best for my teammates and the fans," he said, ending his remarks with a "Let's Go Giants!" chant.
Local reporters at the event applauded and welcomed his unexpected English speech.
Lee will receive a total of $113 million over six years in San Francisco. It includes an opt-out clause after the 2027 season. 카지노
He starts with a $7 million salary in 2024, followed by $16 million in 2025, $22 million in 2026 and 2027, and $20.5 million in 2028 and 2029. A $5 million signing bonus is included.
Lee is one of the best hitters in the KBO, having won five Golden Gloves, been named the 2017 Rookie of the Year and the 2022 MVP.
He had his best season in 2022, batting .349 with a .996 OPS, 85 runs scored, 36 doubles, 10 triples, 23 home runs and 113 RBIs.
His 2023 season was limited to 86 games due to injury, but he hit .318 with 23 doubles, two triples, six home runs, 45 RBI, and 50 runs scored.
In March, he represented South Korea in the World Baseball Classic (WBC), going 6-for-14 with two doubles, two triples and five RBIs.