Ryu Ji-hyun, manager of the South Korean national baseball team, has emphasized that they are fully prepared for the World Baseball Classic (WBC), with a commitment to showcase their best performance in Tokyo. The team recently completed two warm-up matches in Osaka, with a mix of results: a draw against the Hanshin Tigers and a victory against the Orix Buffaloes. This builds on a strong training record in Okinawa, where they attained a practice game record of five wins, one draw, and one loss, indicating a solid readiness for the international competition.

Key players have demonstrated impressive performance leading into the tournament, with standout performances noted from Kim Do-young and An Hyun-min, both highlighting their offensive capabilities. However, there are concerns surrounding the younger pitching staff, as several players displayed inconsistent performance during the warm-up matches. The reliance on human umpires for ball and strike calls has added to their challenges, particularly with rules stipulating that pitchers must face a minimum of three batters, which limits tactical flexibility during games.

The team has undergone strategic preparation, beginning with a training camp in Saipan and subsequent intensive practice in Okinawa. Despite the removal of some players from the final roster, the team remains hopeful and determined, with key players like Ryu Hyun-jin and Park Hae-min stepping up as leaders. The atmosphere within the team is reportedly more positive compared to previous competitions, reflecting their dedication and optimism ahead of competing in the WBC.