The ten-day break was no problem for Lee Jung-hoo of the San Francisco Giants.
On the 24th (Korea time), Lee Jung-hoo started the game as the third center fielder against the Sacramento River Cats at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, California, and lit it up from his first at-bat in the first inning.
In his first at-bat with one out and a runner on first in the first inning, Lee Jung-hoo faced Kitten Win, who recorded a 3-8 record and a 7.16 earned run average in 12 games at the major league level last year. Lee Jung-hoo swung confidently against Win. He hit a double to center field on the second pitch, bringing home the base runner Hellyot Ramos. Subsequently, Lee Jung-hoo touched home plate due to a fielding error by the opposing shortstop.
In his second at-bat with two outs and runners on first and second at the bottom of the second inning, he faced Kitten Win and worked a full count before walking. He successfully reached base twice in his first game back after ten days.
Lee Jung-hoo returned to the starting lineup ten days after participating in a spring training exhibition game against the Texas Rangers on the 14th. He was excluded from the starting lineup due to a sudden back injury before the game against the Seattle Mariners on the 16th. It was considered a minor injury. However, the pain did not improve, and he eventually underwent an MRI on the 19th. The examination indicated no structural damage, but he could not predict a return date.
Manager Bob Melvin noted on the 22nd that he hoped Lee Jung-hoo would return and get in shape by the season opener against the Cincinnati Reds on the 28th. However, he had rested until the game on the 22nd and made his return that day after ten days.
"My back pain has never been this severe," Lee Jung-hoo confessed, adding, "The season opener is really important. If I am ready, I will definitely play." However, he also stated, "But the season is a long journey of 162 games, and I am looking at it from a long-term perspective. I will play if I am ready, but if not, I think I need more time to adapt. I want to make good use of that time," emphasizing that he would steadily improve his physical condition. He said he would not rush, but Lee Jung-hoo's batting skills remained hot despite the ten-day break.
According to John Shea of the San Francisco Standard on social media, "Lee Jung-hoo received an injection treatment for his back and felt much better." He added, "I don't want to use the word Injury because I feel so light," indicating he will play without concern for the injury.
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