Ryu Ji-hyun, the manager of South Korea's WBC baseball team, expressed optimism regarding the team's preparations ahead of the World Baseball Classic scheduled to begin on March 5 in Tokyo. In a recent interview, he stated that while the pitchers are gradually building up their performance, the batters have been achieving impressive results in their recent practice games, winning three out of four against the Samsung Lions, Hanwha Eagles, and Kia Tigers. Ryu pointed out that these results have contributed to heightened expectations among the players and the coaching staff.

As the team prepares for the final entry announcement, several players, including Moon Dong-ju and Choi Jae-hoon, have had to withdraw due to injuries, prompting the inclusion of new players such as Kim Hyung-jun and Yoo Young-chan. Despite these setbacks, Ryu has highlighted the cohesion among the remaining team members and the leadership of veteran player Ryu Hyun-jin, who has been pivotal in guiding the younger athletes. He reflected on the growth in mental preparedness of the team, indicating that a healthy mindset can enhance performance beyond physical capabilities.

The team completed their scheduled practices and will continue to engage in training games against the Samsung Lions and KT Wiz. Several MLB players are set to join the team shortly, completing the roster and ensuring that they enter the tournament in peak condition. Ryu remains hopeful that the players preparing in the U.S. will arrive ready to contribute effectively to the team's success in the WBC, as he expects them to integrate smoothly after participating in spring training games.