Samsung catcher Kim Do-hwan (26) has been removed from the first team. On May 12, the Samsung Lions announced that Kim experienced discomfort in his right hamstring during an away game against NC on May 10, and a medical checkup on May 11 revealed a minor muscle strain. “It’s not a serious injury, but he will be rested for 10 days before returning,” the team said, adding that he was taken off the active roster on May 12.
Kim Do-hwan had been a key contributor to Samsung’s recent seven-game winning streak, stepping up after veteran catcher Kang Min-ho was sent down to the second team. This season, Kim appeared in 12 games, batting .286 with 8 hits, 1 home run, 4 RBIs, and 3 runs scored. His steady presence behind the plate helped stabilize the pitching staff during the streak.
With Kim sidelined for at least 10 games, the pressure now falls on veterans Kang Min-ho and Park Se-hyuk. Kang has struggled at the plate this season, hitting just .197 with 8 RBIs and 4 runs over 27 games, while Park is batting .129 in 20 games. Samsung will need both experienced catchers to step up offensively and manage the pitching staff effectively during Kim Do-hwan’s absence.
