The San Francisco Giants' Lee Jung-hoo has finally returned.
Suffering from back pain, Lee will be starting as the No. 3 center fielder on the 24th (Korean time) in a game against the Sacramento River Cats at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, California.
He is returning to the starting lineup ten days after participating in a spring training exhibition game against the Texas Rangers on the 14th.
Lee was removed from the starting lineup just before the game against the Seattle Mariners on the 16th. Sudden back pain had occurred. It was considered a minor injury. However, there was no improvement in the pain, and he eventually underwent an MRI on the 19th. The examination showed no structural damage, but Lee's time away from the game has extended.
Manager Bob Melvin noted on the 22nd that he hoped Lee would return and be in shape for the opening game against the Cincinnati Reds on the 28th. However, he rested until the game on the 22nd.
Lee was surprised by the different pain he experienced. "I've never had back pain this severe before," he admitted. Still, he emphasized, "The opening game is really important. If I'm ready, I will definitely play," while also noting, "But the season is a long journey of 162 games, and I'm looking at it from a long-term perspective. If I'm ready, I will participate; if not, I think I'll need more time to adapt. I want to make good use of that time," promising he would calmly work on improving his physical condition.
With just four days left until the opening game, he has returned, easing the team's worries and concerns. Lee is shouldering the fate of the San Francisco Giants this year. On the 22nd, MLB.com selected Lee as an X-factor, a significant variable for teams that failed to reach the postseason last year.
The outlet reported, "While the Giants' lineup has gained strength by acquiring Willy Adames in the free agent (FA) market, it will not be sufficient for Adames alone to generate the offensive power needed for postseason advancement," also emphasizing that the Giants expect Lee, who signed a large contract after the 2023 season, to inject the necessary vitality into the lineup.
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