In a recent evaluation match held at the Osaka Dome in Japan, Kim Do-young of the KIA Tigers showcased his recovery from injury by hitting a solo home run in the fifth inning, tying the game at 3-3 against the Hanshin Tigers. This match served as the first official test for the Korean national team gearing up for the 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). Kim's performance not only lifted the team's spirits but also demonstrated his significant role in the lineup, as he had been recovering from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for the previous season.

The match began with Kim impacting the game's momentum early on, leading off with a hit against Hanshin's ace pitcher, Saiki Hiroto. This set the stage for the national team to capitalize on scoring opportunities, leading to a quick 2-0 lead by the second inning. However, the team faced a setback when starting pitcher Kwak Bin allowed three runs due to hits and walks, leaving them trailing 2-3 initially. Nonetheless, Kim's powerful swing in the fifth helped level the score, showcasing the depth and talent of the national squad as they prepared for their next trial against the Orix Buffaloes.

On the mound, several pitchers, including Ryu Hyun-jin and others, kept the scoreline intact in the later innings, with Ryu making a notable return after 16 years donning the national jersey, preventing any runs over two innings with a combination of strong fastballs and curves. The team's resilience and adaptability will be critical as they continue to fine-tune their lineup and strategies leading up to the WBC, with key players like Kim Do-young establishing themselves as vital assets.