Rookie left-handed pitcher Bae Chan-seung (19) of the Samsung Lions said he will not rest on his laurels from his practice game performances and is determined to prepare well for the upcoming season.
Bae Chan-seung, who was selected in the 1st round (3rd pick) of the 2025 rookie draft, is expected to be an exceptional prospect who can immediately perform in the first team. He has already been throwing fastballs exceeding 150 km/h in spring training and has made a strong start, recording three scoreless innings in practice games against the Yomiuri Giants and in a Blue-White Game.
In an interview before a practice game against the SSG Landers on the 25th at Akama Stadium in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, Bae Chan-seung noted, "Having participated in actual games, I realized that hitters are definitely more refined than in high school. Their contact with the ball is very good. Even when I threw strikes, there were many fouls, and it seemed that a mistake pitch would likely lead to a hit. Next, I am considering focusing on the outer corner of the strike zone."
Having recorded scoreless appearances in all three outings, Bae Chan-seung reflected, "In my view, I wasn’t that satisfied. I think I need to raise my strike percentage in the ball/strike ratio. I believe I should throw balls similar to strikes."
Bae Chan-seung, who topped out at 152 km/h in his outing against the Yomiuri Giants, stated, "I felt really good in that game. The velocity was there, and the ball had good bite, but I also threw a lot of balls. My stuff was good, but I think if the hitters had been more patient, I would have had more walks. Going forward, I think it's important to increase the strike ratio."
Regarding already throwing over 150 km/h, Bae Chan-seung explained, "If it’s fast, it’s fast, and if it’s slow, it’s slow. I think it's important to maintain this velocity. I feel that my pace might be a bit fast. I think I threw a bit too fast, so for the next Blue-White Game, I intend to take it a little easier. My coach suggested that I should manage my throws during this turn and not throw too much. I think I will rest now and pitch in the next game turn or in exhibition games."
"I am training systematically compared to high school, so my physical condition is very good," emphasized Bae Chan-seung. He added, "I always ask my seniors if I have any questions. Since it doesn’t matter much right now, I’ve been advised not to overdo it." He continued, "On off days, I usually stay in my room. I don’t do anything special and just watch YouTube, among other things, to relax."
Bae Chan-seung has a high chance of quickly getting a chance in the first team because there aren’t many left-handed pitchers in the Samsung bullpen. "It would be a lie to say there’s no pressure," he candidly admitted. "However, I want to turn that pressure into anticipation and excitement so I can perform well this season."