Seoul: High school pitcher Park Jun-hyun, son of former star third baseman Park Sok-min, was selected first overall at the annual South Korean baseball draft, marking a significant moment in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) event.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the promising young pitcher from Bugil High School in Cheonan, about 90 kilometers south of Seoul, was chosen by the Kiwoom Heroes. Park, an 18-year-old right-hander, has demonstrated impressive skills on the mound this season, achieving a 2.63 ERA over 40 2/3 innings, with 54 strikeouts and 14 walks, alongside a 2-1 record. His fastball has reportedly reached speeds of up to 157 kph.
Park Jun-hyun's father, Park Sok-min, enjoyed a remarkable 20-season career in the KBO from 2004 to 2023, winning five Korean Series titles with the Samsung Lions and adding a sixth with the NC Dinos. Renowned as one of the greatest third basemen of his era, the elder Park secured Golden Glove awards in 2014 and 2015, ending his career with 269 home runs, 1,041 RBIs, and a .287/.402/.491 line in 1,697 games.
Despite earlier allegations of bullying against Park Jun-hyun, he was cleared by the regional education office due to insufficient evidence. The Kiwoom Heroes expressed confidence in their choice to draft him, as the accusations were unsubstantiated. They also noted that Park's decision to enter the draft, despite an apparent offer from Major League Baseball's Athletics, further demonstrated his commitment to his professional journey in South Korea.
Park's declaration of no wrongdoing during the draft process and his choice to stay in Korea, despite two other top prospects moving overseas, underscore his dedication to honing his skills in the KBO first. He is set to wear the No. 18 jersey, a tribute to his father's own career number.
The draft selection order was determined by the reverse order of finish from the 2024 regular season, with other notable picks including infielder Shin Jae-in, center fielder Oh Jae-won, and pitchers Shin Dong-kun and Kim Min-jun, among others. A record four position players were chosen in the first round, highlighting the depth of talent in this year's draft class.