NCT member Jeno drew attention by serving as the pitcher for the opening game of the 2025 KBO League.
On March 22, Jeno was invited to the mound during the game between the Samsung Lions and the Kiwoom Heroes at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. He had planned to pitch in the second game of the playoffs against the LG Twins last year, but he missed that opportunity when the game was postponed due to rain. This time, he achieved his dream in the opening game. Accepting the official request from the Samsung team, Jeno happily stated before the game, “Hello, this is Jeno. Nice to meet you. I really appreciate being invited as the pitcher today. I will cheer for a victory in the opening game of the 2025 season. Go Samsung Lions!”
Wearing a Samsung Lions uniform with the number 23 on it, Jeno stepped onto the mound and showcased a gentle yet powerful pitch, receiving applause from the fans. SBS Sports commentator Lee Taek-geun, who watched the event, praised him, saying, “I often use the term ‘completeness’ while commentating, and Jeno’s physical condition is on the level of a player. In particular, his upper body muscles are quite developed, and despite the pressure of being in the first game and pitching for the first time, he displayed stable pitching.”
Meanwhile, in that day’s game, the Samsung Lions achieved a great victory of 13-5, led by strong hitting and stable pitching. Koo Ja-wook had 3 hits and 4 RBIs from 4 at-bats, including a 2-run home run, while starting pitcher Albert Hurado delivered a solid performance with 2 earned runs over 8 hits across 6 innings, marking his first win of the season.
The 2025 season, which began with Jeno’s powerful pitch, has raised fans' expectations even higher, wondering if the Samsung Lions can maintain good performance with his support.
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