Controversy Fades as 'Strong Baseball 2025' Returns with Touching Stories and Undiminished Spirit

The legends of baseball are back on the field. JTBC's 'Strong Baseball' 2025 season has finally premiered, overcoming initial controversies and drawing in support rather than criticism.

The episode aired on the 22nd featured the debut of the newly formed 'Breakers' team for the new season, rather than the existing 'Monsters'. Led by manager Lee Jong-beom, along with coaches Shim Soo-chang and Jang Sung-ho, and players like Kim Tae-kyun, pitcher Yoon Suk-min, Oh Joo-won, Yoon Gil-hyun, Heo Do-hwan, Lee Dae-hyung, Na Ju-hwan, hitter Yoon Suk-min, Kwon Hyuk, Lee Hyun-seung, Na Ji-wan, Oh Hyun-taek, Yoon Hee-sang, and Choi Jin-haeng, they faced off against the formidable Dongwon Science and Technology University.

The stories of Lee Hyun-seung, now a barbecue restaurant owner, and hitter Yoon Suk-min, who has been working as a cement mixer truck driver, brought a tear to viewers' eyes. Yoon Suk-min shared his heartfelt emotions, stating, "I had forgotten I was a baseball player, so I was overjoyed to be able to play again." Lee Hyun-seung confessed that fans no longer recognize him and expressed his desire to be remembered as a player once more.

Manager Lee Jong-beom also offered a sincere apology. His appointment as the new season's manager, while still serving as a coach for KT Wiz, had caused a stir in the industry. Facing concerns about his dual role, he apologized to disappointed fans and requested their support for the players.

Some players faced accusations of being 'traitors'. Oh Joo-won and Shim Soo-chang, who were part of the original 'Strong Baseball' and are now associated with 'Flaming Baseball' (formerly 'Strong Baseball'), generated heated debate. Loyal fans of the original show heavily criticized their move. Oh Joo-won defended his decision by stating, "I respect the manager, like my fellow players, and cherish the production team and fans from 'Flaming Baseball'. However, 'Strong Baseball' was the only offer I received while I was resting. It was a difficult choice, but I had no other option. Just as I joined Season 1 thanks to Soo-chang hyung, this is the same. This is my definition of loyalty."

JTBC is currently in a dispute with Studio C1, the production company for previous seasons, over production costs and settlement issues. This led Studio C1 to launch 'Flaming Baseball' with much of the same crew and cast, creating a clear divide among fans.

Despite the pre-show concerns, the new season's premiere viewership recorded 1.5% (Nielsen Korea), a slightly lower start compared to previous seasons which hovered around 2%. However, the audience reaction has been largely positive, with praise for the more dynamic editing and the entertaining chemistry of the players who are well-suited for variety shows.

The game itself was full of drama. Pitcher Oh Joo-won started strong with a scoreless first inning, and the Breakers' offense exploded for four runs in the second, thanks to timely hits from Heo Do-hwan and Kang Min-guk. When Dongwon Science and Technology University threatened, pitcher Yoon Suk-min, returning to the mound after six years, showcased his 'untouchable' slider with three consecutive strikeouts, signaling his triumphant comeback.

'Strong Baseball' has turned concerns into enjoyment and promises more excitement ahead. Fans are thrilled to see Oh Joo-won's continued prowess, Yoon Suk-min's revitalized pitching, and the KBO legends competing with all their might.

This season's mission for the 'Strong Baseball' team is to win the 'Championship Cup Tournament', facing off against the strongest teams from high school, university, and independent leagues. To achieve this, the Breakers must engage in a 'drafting battle' after each victory, acquiring a player from the opposing team. Their first opponent was Dongwon Science and Technology University.

/comet568@osen.co.kr

[Photo] Strong Baseball

Lee Hyun-seung transitioned from his baseball career to successfully manage a barbecue restaurant, seeking to reconnect with fans through the show. Yoon Suk-min, once hailed as a 'monster pitcher,' faced an early end to his career due to injuries, highlighting his deep longing to pitch competitively again.