Tigers manager breathes sigh of relief after star player avoids injury

Published on April 3, 2026

SEOUL, April 2 (Yonhap) — Kia Tigers manager Lee Bum-ho felt his heart drop Wednesday when his star player, Na Sung-bum, collided with the outfield wall during a tense moment in the game against the Doosan Bears. Fans held their breath as Na crumpled to the ground, clutching his side, raising immediate concerns over a potential injury that could sideline him for an extended period.

However, the sigh of relief echoed throughout the stadium when Na managed to get back on his feet and remained in the game. The 30-year-old outfielder demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, helping the Tigers secure a 5-3 victory over their rivals.

After the game, Lee expressed his gratitude, stating, “I was incredibly worried when Na hit the wall. He means a lot to our team, not just in terms of his performance but as a leader on and off the field.” Lee added that he would monitor Na closely moving forward, ensuring that he is in optimal condition for the upcoming games.

Na has been a key player for the Tigers since joining the team in 2019, earning accolades for his powerful batting and exceptional fielding skills. His importance to the lineup cannot be understated, making any potential injury a major concern for the Tigers, who are currently vying for a top position in the KBO League this season.

As the Tigers prepare for their next series, fans hope to see Na continue to lead the charge on the field, illustrating the team’s resilience not only in scores but also in their ability to recover from setbacks. Coach Lee’s focus now shifts to ensuring all players maintain their health and performance as the season heats up.

Related News