Kim Hwi-jip Begins Comeback in Futures League

Kim Hwi-jip's comeback has moved into real-game action as he nears a full return. The NC Dinos' third baseman and leadoff hitter started his first game since the injury in a Mediheal KBO Futures League match against the KIA Tigers at Masan Baseball Stadium in Changwon on the 14th, logging five innings, two at-bats, no hits, and one walk. He then appeared on the 15th against KIA, recording one hit in four at-bats and seven innings at third base. Earlier, on April 16 at NC Park, he was struck on the right wrist by KT Wiz starter Matt Sauer's 147 km/h fastball and was substituted after a fracture was confirmed, with non-surgical treatment and a six-week return window.