Hwang Jae-kyun (KT Wiz), who was pushed from the starting position to backup, staged a show of force in the exhibition game on the 17th; however, the head coach showed no signs of movement. The manager viewed Hwang Jae-kyun's performance as an enhancement of depth rather than a heated position competition.

KT Wiz manager Lee Kang-chul met with reporters on the 18th before the final exhibition game against Doosan Bears, which was scheduled to be held at Suwon KT Wiz Park, to discuss Hwang Jae-kyun's 3-for-2 performance and excellent defensive plays from the previous day, stating, "It's good when a backup performs that well."

Hwang Jae-kyun, who once reached the Major League, became renowned as the iron man of the Wizards after joining KT in 2018, with seven consecutive seasons. He hit the jackpot with two FA contracts as a third baseman, accumulating 14.8 billion won ($14.8 million) (4 years 8.8 billion won ($8.8 million), 4 years 6 billion won ($6 million)). However, the team invested 4 billion won ($4 million) in signing top-notch third baseman Heo Kyung-min, who is three years younger, prompting Hwang Jae-kyun to embark on a new challenge at the late age of 38. He decisively opted to switch to a utility role, giving up on competing for the third baseman position early last December.

During spring camp, Hwang Jae-kyun demonstrated a strong will to survive by training not only at third base but also at second base, shortstop, first base, and in the outfield. Despite showcasing his skills in various positions during practice and exhibition games, he ultimately received backup roles behind third baseman Heo Kyung-min and first baseman Moon Sang-cheol. Second base will be handled by Oh Yun-seok and Cheon Seong-ho, with Kwon Dong-jin and Yoon Joon-hyuk confirmed as backups for shortstop Kim Sang-su.

Nevertheless, on the 17th, Hwang Jae-kyun displayed his presence as a starting third baseman against Doosan, as always. He struck 3-for-2 with 3 RBIs against the Doosan mound and showcased a spectacular diving catch, effectively staging a show of force in front of manager Lee Kang-chul, who classified him as a backup. It was also a match that confirmed the potential of the combination of third baseman Hwang Jae-kyun and designated hitter Heo Kyung-min.

However, the head coach's perspective was different. Manager Lee Kang-chul remarked, "Hwang Jae-kyun is fundamentally a player who excels at third base, so he can be considered a backup akin to a starter. During the regular season, when Heo Kyung-min is resting, he can play third base as well. Realistically speaking, isn't Heo Kyung-min above him?"

Hwang Jae-kyun, who received a role as a backup for the first time after joining KT, emphasized the previous day, "Is there much to say about the position of a backup? I'm just preparing in the same way. The starters won’t always be starters, so I'm preparing to step in whenever needed. If just one player falters, I need to be ready to fill that position."

Although he has become a backup, his resolve is more determined than ever. Hwang Jae-kyun stated, "The manager said he is raising younger players with a long-term view, so I won't be assigned to any unfamiliar positions. However, if the manager tells me to go out later, I will. If he wants, I am preparing to play shortstop, second base, and left field as well."

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