(Yonhap Interview) Giants' New Star Shines in KBO's Electric Atmosphere

A New Beginning in South Korea

Alec Gamboa, a left-handed pitcher for the Lotte Giants, had no idea what to expect when he made his debut in the South Korean league. The 28-year-old American signed with the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) club earlier that month, replacing Charlie Barnes in the Giants' rotation. Unlike most foreign players who come to South Korea, Gamboa hadn't played in Major League Baseball before.

He was a ninth-round selection by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2019 MLB draft and reached Triple-A in 2023, but never got a call-up to the big leagues. So, when he stepped on the mound against the Samsung Lions, he wasn't used to pitching in front of large crowds. The game was at Daegu Samsung Lions Park, where a sellout crowd of 24,000 watched.

"I'd never pitched in anything like that," Gamboa said. "I'd never made my big league debut, so I was always in the minor leagues, and the minor leagues don't get too many fans."

Experience That Surpassed Expectations

Gamboa said he had heard about the KBO from others who had played there, but nothing could prepare him for the actual experience. He described the atmosphere as "crazier than I could have ever imagined." From the first pitch to the last, the fans are fully engaged, making every game feel like a big one.

This kind of energy keeps players focused throughout the entire nine innings. Gamboa also expressed appreciation for the Giants fans, who often travel to road games. Their presence makes it feel like a home game even when they're away from their usual stadium.

"I think they're the best fans in baseball, and that's not just in Korea," Gamboa said.

Adjusting to the Game

Despite the excitement, Gamboa struggled in his first game, allowing four runs on five hits in 4 2/3 innings. The Samsung Lions took advantage of his slow routine, executing a rare triple steal in the second inning. Gamboa quickly changed his approach, shortening his routine in the next inning.

In his second KBO game on June 3, he threw seven shutout innings against the Kiwoom Heroes, earning his first win in South Korea. He explained that the change was more about rhythm than mechanics.

"It was a smooth and easy adjustment," Gamboa said.

Success on the Mound

The adjustment paid off. Gamboa went on to win four more starts in a row and posted a 1.72 ERA in June, earning the Player of the Month award. He continued to pitch into the sixth inning in each of his seven outings after his debut, taking pride in his ability to eat up innings.

"I think what I like about the season the most is being consistent, going some length for the team, trying not to tax the bullpen early and trying to get as many innings as possible," Gamboa said.

His goal is to give the team the best chance to win every time he steps on the mound. Gamboa has found a new home in South Korea, and his performance on the field reflects his dedication and adaptability.