"It's just an opening game, and I feel like they're all similar in any stadium. Still, it's always exciting that a new season is starting."

Ruben Cardenas, a foreign hitter for the Kiwoom Heroes who played for the Samsung Lions last year, shared his thoughts as he visited Daegu Samsung Lions Park.

Cardenas, who joined Samsung as a substitute for David McKinnon last year, left the team after being unable to play many games due to injury. He participated in 7 games last year, recording a batting average of .333 (8 hits in 24 at-bats), 2 home runs, 5 RBIs, 2 runs, and an OPS of 1.027. However, last winter, he signed a contract with Kiwoom worth 600,000 dollars, gaining another chance to challenge the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) league.

On the 22nd, Cardenas shared his feelings about returning to the KBO league ahead of the regular season opener against Samsung. He said, "It's just an opening game, and I feel like they're all similar in any stadium. Still, it's always exciting that a new season is starting."

His current condition is good. Cardenas stated, "I'm feeling good right now. I'm really happy to be able to play in the KBO again. I want to properly show the fans what kind of plays I can display throughout the season. I will show my hard work in front of the Kiwoom fans."

He also made sure to greet the Kiwoom fans. Cardenas said, "The support from the fans is a great strength to us players. Whether we win or lose, I hope to hear the cheers of the fans throughout the season. I will always show my best, so please support me a lot."

Kiwoom faces Ariel Hurado, who was the foreign ace until last year with Samsung, as an opponent. Manager Hong Won-ki noted, "It is clear that Hurado has dedicated himself to our team until last year and is an excellent pitcher. The opening game is just one game out of 144. The same goes for Heisus (KT). We will focus solely on winning the game."

Meanwhile, Kiwoom has formed a starting lineup of second baseman Song Seong-mun, designated hitter Yasiel Puig, center fielder Lee Joo-hyung, right fielder Ruben Cardenas, first baseman Choi Joo-hwan, shortstop Kim Tae-jin, third baseman Yeo Dong-wook, left fielder Park Joo-hong, and catcher Kim Jae-hyun. Left-hander Kenny Rosenberg is on the starting mound.

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