Jeong Woo-woo instead of Jeong Hyun-woo, Kiwoom is on the verge of the rookie draft?

 “Nothing has changed yet”

It's time to pick the future leaders of the KBO's 10 clubs. The rookie draft will be held on the 11th.

The clubs are trying to save the best for last. They are trying to make a decision they won't regret.

Inevitably, fans are interested in the top picks. The first overall pick in this year's rookie draft is held by the Kiwoom Heroes.

It was an interesting move. Kiwoom initially showed interest in Jeong-woo (Jeon Ju-ju), the 'everyone's No. 1 pick'. Manager Ko Hyung-wook, who travels around the country to watch and select amateur players, also made an early effort. He is a natural fireballer who can throw a fastball in the mid-150s with a soft form and a very comfortable delivery. Most people in the baseball world expected Jung to be the first pick.

But about a month ago, a strange jet stream was detected. Rumors began to surface that Kiwoom had switched its focus from Jung to Duksugo's “complete lefty” Jung Hyun-woo. Ko didn't deny the rumors. “After Ryu Hyun-jin (Hanwha), 파워볼실시간 Kim Kwang-hyun (SSG), and Yang Hyeon-jong (KIA), there hasn't been a left-handed pitcher who can dominate opponents. We believe that Jung Hyun-woo can be such a player,” he said.

While Jeong is good enough to tempt major league teams with big money offers, Kiwoom was more immediately impressed with his changeup and ability to run a game. The rarity of a left-handed hard-throwing starter also appealed. The rarity of a left-handed starter with a hard fastball was also attractive.

This, coupled with the increased recognition, including interest from major league teams, meant that Jung's status on and off the field was uncertain.

The national tournaments where players can be evaluated are over. And the 13th Asian Youth Baseball Championship, which was considered the final test, is over. South Korea finished in third place. However, both of them pitched a no-hitter against Japan on July 7. It was an impressive pitching performance.

So, with the rookie draft just around the corner, are there any chances that Ki and Ko will change their minds? “So far, we haven't changed our minds on the selection of Jung Hyun-woo. “We still prioritize the value of selecting a left-hander, even though his performance has been overwhelming,” said Ko.

Kiwoom sent a staff member to Taiwan for the Asian Youth Championship to watch the two pitch until the end. “The on-field evaluation of Jung Hyun-woo is good. I've seen him on highlight reels,” he said. ”There are a lot of good pitchers in this year's draft. No matter which player we select, we have a lot of resources that can help the team.”