WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC: POOL B - KOREA VS JAPAN

March 10, 2023

Kang Chul Lee

Tokyo Dome

Team Korea

Postgame Press Conference

Japan 13, Korea 4

Q. Today you put Kwang Hyun Kim as a starter. Early in the game, it was such a close game, but what's in your mind right now?

KANG CHUL LEE: Yes, the entire game, it's a very tough struggle game. Early in the game, we were ahead, but I think when I changed the pitcher, I made a couple mistakes. That's why it caused the fact.

Q. Tell me about the offense. The top third you got a two-run jack, and also the top six, Kun-Woo Park also hit a home run. What was good about your offense?

KANG CHUL LEE: Yes, followed by yesterday's game, we swung hard, and my players are all positive.

Q. On the other hand, you put the 10 pitchers, and what's in your mind for the difference, especially for the pitching?

KANG CHUL LEE: Yes, we have a strong bullpen, and all of us could not get 100 percent effort. A lot of our younger pitchers had experience. I believe that today's experience will lead into the future.

Q. Before the game started, you mentioned that this is a very important game. What's the key for today's game do you think right now?

KANG CHUL LEE: It's the third inning. When you talk about the baseball, we have to minimize the score right after we score. As soon as we scored, then we gave up a go-ahead run. That's the point, I think.

Q. You have two games left against the Czech Republic and also China. What's your plan for the upcoming two games?

KANG CHUL LEE: Yes, we have some pitchers with good condition, so by using them mainly, we will try to do our best. We still have two games to go.

Q. The score, 13-4, do you think this actual gap between Team Japan and Team Korea, or do you think it's just the fact of one game?

KANG CHUL LEE: Well, I think Japan played well. This is a fact. At the same time, I believe that this is not our fact, I think.

Q. You mentioned a while ago that the bottom of the third inning is a key point. In that situation, you gave up intentional walk for Ohtani. What was the reason why you gave Ohtani a free base?

KANG CHUL LEE: Well, I thought the reason why I gave him a free pass is we were trying to minimize the extra-base hit. Also, the guy behind Ohtani is not hot, so that's why I gave him an intentional walk.