It is a blessing in disguise. However, the label of durability concern remains.

Lee Jeong-hu, known as the 'Grandson of the Wind' (outfielder for the San Francisco Giants), received a diagnosis after an examination that there were no significant issues. Lee was scheduled to start in an exhibition game against the Seattle Mariners on the 16th (Korean time), but was excluded from the starting lineup due to back pain.

At that time, the team said about Lee's condition, "He woke up from sleeping and showed symptoms of a back strain." Lee's pain continued for longer than expected, and he underwent an MRI on the 18th.

Manager Bob Melvin noted on the 18th while discussing Lee's examination plan, "The situation has not improved. It would be fine if he could play in the Arizona camp or at Oracle Park. Clearly, the pain has lasted longer than expected, but I hope to hear good news."

Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reported on the 19th, "The MRI results showed no structural damage to Lee's back. He will continue rehabilitation." The timing of Lee's return remains uncertain.

Lee Jeong-hu signed a 6-year, $113 million contract with San Francisco in December 2023. He was expected to be a key player in bringing a new breeze to San Francisco. However, Lee recorded a batting average of .262 (38 hits in 145 at-bats), 2 home runs, 8 RBIs, 15 runs, and 2 stolen bases in 37 games last year. He ended his season after injuring his left shoulder during defense in a home game against the Cincinnati Reds on May 13.

After returning to Korea, Lee underwent rehabilitation with the help of a trainer sent by the team and headed to the U.S. in his best condition. Before departing on January 13, he said, "My current physical condition is 100%. I've done everything I could in Korea. I even hit machine balls. Now I want to train outside, so I'm thinking of training outdoors once I arrive."

Regarding mental management during rehabilitation, Lee stated, "I actually think I have become more mature because of that time. Last year, I went with just confidence without experiencing anything. Now, I have both excitement and am not just filled with confidence. I feel better mentally because I am going calmly."

Regarding his goals for this season, Lee articulated, "First and foremost, my goal is to play a full season without injuries. I've been injured for the past two years and couldn't play many games, so I want to participate in many games, and I hope the team ranks well to make the postseason."

Lee Jeong-hu was included among 20 players who could change their team's fate as selected by Yahoo Sports from those returning from injuries. He maintained a good rhythm in 12 exhibition games, posting a batting average of .300 (9 hits in 30 at-bats), 2 home runs, 5 RBIs, 9 runs, and an OPS of 0.967, but he had to pause due to an unexpected injury.

Although there is no set date for Lee Jeong-hu's return, he faces the task of quickly returning to the field and shedding the label of 'durability concern' surrounding him.

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