South Korea’s Baseball Manager Keeps Starting Pitching Plans Under Wraps for Upcoming Tournament.

Seoul: With South Korea preparing for an international baseball tournament, manager Ryu Joong-il confirmed that he has finalized his starting pitching plans but is opting to keep them confidential for now. South Korea will be competing in the third edition of the World Baseball Softball Confederation Premier12, where they are placed in Group B alongside Japan, Cuba, Australia, the Dominican Republic, and Chinese Taipei.According to Yonhap News Agency, South Korea's opening match is scheduled against Chinese Taipei in Taipei City on November 13, followed by games against Cuba, Japan, the Dominican Republic, and Australia. The top two teams from Group B will advance to the Super Round beginning on November 21 in Tokyo. Ryu emphasized the significance of winning the first game and mentioned that he and pitching coach Choi Il-eon have already chosen the starting pitcher for that match, but are keeping the details undisclosed.Ryu, who has 34 players from the Korea Baseball Organization in the training camp, wi ll narrow down the final roster to 28 players this week. He plans to announce the final cuts following South Korea's last practice match against the military club Sangmu. Ryu disclosed that four pitchers and two position players, including one catcher, will be cut from the roster.The likely starting pitchers include Ko Young-pyo and Um Sang-back from the KT Wiz, Gwak Been and Choi Seung-yong from the Doosan Bears, and Im Chan-kyu from the LG Twins. Ryu intends to primarily select players around 25 years of age for the Premier12 as South Korea aims to prepare for future events like the 2026 World Baseball Classic and the 2028 Summer Olympics. However, due to limited pitching options, exceptions will be made for Ko and Im, who are both over 30.All pitchers are expected to get playing time in the upcoming practice game, with some national team pitchers participating on the opposition to ensure sufficient innings. Injuries have already affected the team, with Samsung Lions' third baseman Kim Young-woong being the latest concern. Despite a stellar season, Kim is dealing with right shoulder issues that have hindered his ability to bat, although he was able to take part in fielding drills.The national team is set to depart for Taipei City on Friday.