My heart sank. Still, it's a great relief. The examination results of Lee Jung-hoo from the San Francisco Giants are hopeful. I hope to return within the exhibition games.

The San Francisco team explained on the 19th (Korea time), "According to Lee Jung-hoo's MRI results, there is no structural damage." What a relief.

Lee Jung-hoo has been absent since the 14th due to back pain following a match against the Texas Rangers. Although it was said to be mild pain, the absence period has extended. Eventually, Lee Jung-hoo had to undergo an MRI examination. Manager Bob Melvin noted on the 18th, "If Lee Jung-hoo can play either in the exhibition games held here (Arizona) or at home, it would be fine. I hope to hear good news," adding, "However, his condition is not improving much. It is taking a bit longer than expected."

In mid-May last year, Lee Jung-hoo underwent shoulder surgery after colliding with the wall during defense, but he was participating healthily in the exhibition games when sudden back pain surprised everyone. Depending on the extent of his injury, his availability for the opening game could become uncertain.

"MLB.com" raised questions about whether Lee Jung-hoo would be able to participate in the opening game due to this injury. Manager Melvin expressed hope, stating, "If the Korean star returns before the exhibition game schedule wraps up next week (25th-26th), including two games against the Detroit Tigers at Oracle Park, there will be enough time to recover his stamina."

It was not a torture. Hope has emerged. First of all, he will continue treatment without structural damage and prepare to return within the exhibition games. Susan Slusser, a reporter from the "San Francisco Chronicle," shared on her social media account on the 19th that "Bob Melvin thinks Lee Jung-hoo could play on Friday (21st local time, 22nd Korea time). If he plays in three of the last five games, I believe he could participate in the opening game."

San Francisco will play six games starting from the 20th and prepare for the opening game against the Cincinnati Reds on the 28th. They will face the Kansas City Royals on the 20th and take a day off. After that, from the 22nd, they will play two games against the Cleveland Guardians, one game against the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats, and two games against the Detroit Tigers before the opening game. I hope Lee Jung-hoo returns healthily during the last five consecutive exhibition games and plays.

San Francisco is achieving the best results in the exhibition games this year. As of the 18th, they have 16 wins and 5 losses, leading the Cactus League. Therefore, locally, San Francisco Giants are being recognized as a dark horse that exceeds expectations this year. "ESPN" named San Francisco a candidate for surprising success this year.

The media pointed out that the National League West is expected to have fierce competition this season. The Los Angeles Dodgers are positioned as strong championship contenders, while the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres are also considered strong playoff candidates. It has been said that the Giants fall behind these three teams in strength. However, if one or two players show unexpected growth, the possibility of advancing to the postseason by surpassing one of the previously mentioned three teams could arise.

The media mentioned the growth of prospect Heliot Ramos and veteran pitcher Robby Ray, who is returning from Tommy John surgery. However, "Spotting News" projected that despite these positive expectations, the injury to Lee Jung-hoo could be an uncertain variable.

"Spotting News" stated, "Regardless of the positive outlook, the uncertain factor is Lee Jung-hoo's health issue. He underwent an MRI due to recent back pain," and warned that "if Lee Jung-hoo is out for an extended period, the Giants may lack essential elements to compete with strong teams in the West. While the team's atmosphere is flowing positively, everything must go smoothly to establish true competitiveness."

Lee Jung-hoo's injury has become a significant variable that could determine the fate of San Francisco. Quickly returning while alleviating concerns about long-term injuries has become his top priority.

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