LG’s starting positional players have been struggling with their hitting early this season, but one player stands out: backup infielder Gu Bon-hyeok (29). The defending champion LG Twins have found a trustworthy card in him.
Since the season opener, LG has faced a batting slump. Manager Yeom Kyung-yeop has been saying since mid-April that it’s time for the hitters to wake up, but the players have yet to respond. The offense isn’t flowing, leading to frustrating games with many runners left on base.
This hitting drought is particularly painful because it affects the core starters. Shin Min-jae and Oh Ji-hwan, who form the keystone combination, are both struggling at the plate. Even “on-base machine” Hong Chang-ki is having a tough time—his on-base percentage is above .300, but his batting average remains stuck in the .100s. Cheon Seong-ho, who replaced the injured Moon Bo-kyung, has also seen his pace drop in May.
Of course, some players are maintaining good form and fighting through the slump. Gu Bon-hyeok is one of them. He started the season poorly, losing the touch he showed in spring training, but recently his hitting rhythm has picked up. As a result, he has been starting more frequently since late April.
Initially, he worked his way back in the lower part of the lineup. Now riding a hot streak, he has moved up to the second spot. His bat hasn’t cooled off, and he’s effectively setting the table for Austin Dean in the third and fourth slots.
Another positive is his defensive versatility. A well-known utility player in the KBO, Gu has been handling second base, third base, and shortstop while maintaining strong offensive production.
Hitting comes in cycles. The struggling starters can bounce back at any time, and until then, it’s crucial for players like Gu Bon-hyeok to keep performing well, buying time for the slumping hitters to find their groove.
After last season, Gu signed a 70% raise to a 230 million won contract, his first time reaching the 200 million won mark. He entered the season with a different mindset, vowing to prove his worth. His current performances align perfectly with that preseason determination.