June 9 KBO KT LG Korea-Japan Baseball Analysis Sports Analysis
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Ace KT, caught in the abyss of a five-game losing streak, will send Wes Benjamin (4-3, 5.32) to the mound to stop the streak. In his return from injury on the 4th against Hanwha at home, Benjamin was disappointing, allowing three runs in four innings, indicating he's not yet in top form. While he's traditionally been strong against LG, showing prowess with six innings of one-run ball on April 6th, maintaining that form is crucial. KT’s offense, which only managed a two-run homer by Kang Baek-ho against Enns in the previous game, failed to replicate their Game 1 power and subsequently lost. Particularly noteworthy is the painful failure to target LG's bullpen, though KT's bullpen held up with one run over four innings, suggesting some improvement in less pressured situations.
LG, solidifying their first-place position with balanced play, will start Lee Woo-Chan (3-1, 7.82) as an opener. After a poor showing with three runs in just 0.1 innings against SSG on May 28th and a subsequent stint in the minors, Lee looks to recover from a nightmarish late May. While his numbers against KT this season aren't great, he should handle the first inning well. LG's offense, scoring eight runs against Cuevas the previous day, including a two-run homer by Park Dong-won, has consistently hit well in this series. Overcoming Cuevas boosts team morale significantly, and the bullpen, allowing three hits with no runs over four innings, performed its role well.
Considering KT's lineup, it's likely Lee Woo-Chan will only pitch against Kang Baek-ho before being replaced by another pitcher. With the possibility of a bullpen day, KT's offense remains likely stifled. Ultimately, KT's hope rests on Benjamin, who has excelled against LG before, but his post-injury performance raises doubts. LG, with momentum on their side, seems poised for victory.
Predicted Score: 8-3, LG Wins
Win/Loss: LG Wins
Handicap: LG Wins
Over/Under: Under