LG Twins outfielder Song Chan-eui, 27, capitalized on a rare KBO opportunity by hitting a two-run home run against the Hanwha Eagles. The performance helped secure the Twins' third straight win while filling in for struggling teammate Hong Chang-ki. Song credited minor league coaches and Hong's advice for his success.
Since turning professional in 2018, LG Twins outfielder Song Chan-eui has played over 300 Futures League games but only his 131st KBO game on Wednesday against the Hanwha Eagles. He started the season with the Twins but was demoted after one pinch-hit at-bat on March 31. Recalled ahead of Tuesday's game at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul, he drove in two runs during a 6-5 victory.
On Wednesday at Jamsil, Song hit a two-run home run off starter Wang Yan-Cheng on a first-pitch fastball, securing a 3-0 win and the Twins' third consecutive victory. It marked his first home run of 2026 and seventh of his career. In 13 Futures League games, he batted .340/.417/.540 with two home runs, 12 RBIs, and three steals, exploding for four hits including a homer and five RBIs three days before his call-up.
"I knew I wouldn't get many opportunities, so I had to prepare my best," Song said after the game. "Minor league coaches helped me slow down at the plate and avoid bad pitches. I'm grateful my hard work is paying off now." He added, "We're on a winning streak, and I'm happy to contribute."
Song is filling in for Hong Chang-ki, 32, who is hitting .148 (8-for-54) in 17 games—third-lowest among qualified batters despite a career .311 average. Manager Youm Kyoung-youb is giving Hong a breather without demoting him. Hong advised Song to study Wang's video and lent him his iPad, as Song had left his at home. "I prepared for his first-pitch fastball thanks to Chang-ki's help," Song said.
