Choi`s Sixth Home Run

Hee Seop Choi is one step closer to a record of thirty home runs as an Asian major leaguer.

Choi hit his season fifth home run yesterday for the Chicago Cubs. His last home run was on April 18 against the Cincinnati Reds, so the Korean player’s hitting streak is now in its eleventh game.

Choi added a two-run shot off Steve Reed in an away against the Colorado Rockies yesterday. He was two for four with two RBIs and one run. His six game absence disqualifies him from official requirements, however, he now ranks at the top sixth in the National League home run race. Choi also leads his team along with Sosa and Patterson with the most home runs.

Choi also made two wonderful defensive plays. He snared Todd Helton`s line drive in the eighth, and, in the second, he tagged out Walker on second base upon interception of Sosa`s throw to home. Colorado, however, turned around and pulled out an 8-5 victory over the Cubs.

“Hitting five home runs a month will add up to thirty home runs,” Choi told reporters later. “Desire, however, ruins your chance of making a homer. I set myself up for a single, and it turns into a home run.”

Tsuyoshi Shinjo of the New York Mets had 10 home runs in 2001, the record high among Asian players in the Major Leagues.

Put at the top fourth in the lineup for the first time, Choi had one RBI on one hit on Saturday. The Cubs won the game 11-7. Meanwhile, Jung Bong of the Atlanta Braves has a two inning shut out against the Milwaukee Brewers in a Saturday home game. His ERA now stands at 1.42.

Hwan-Soo Zang zangpabo@donga.com