Posted January. 25, 2004 23:04,
Lee Seung-yeop, (28-year-old, Chiba Lotte Marines) was a bit excited.
He was like an elementary student waiting for a picnic. Not only an excited but also a worried look about rain ruining the picnic appeared on his face.
He said in an interview before leaving for Japan at Incheon Airport on January 25, I am excited because I have never left Taegu and lived abroad, confessing, It was hard to calm down my feelings while I spent time with my elders during the holiday. Lee Seung-yeop, showing his determination with his short cut hair, promised by saying, I will make every effort with the attitude of a rookie as he boarded an airplane, accompanied by an agent Kim Ki-joo and a translator Lee Dong-hoon.
A close friend of Lee, comedian Kim Je-dong, came to see Lee off. Lees wife Lee Song-jeong didnt join Lee in order to take care of moving.
-What is your current physical situation?
I feel good because I started physical training earlier than in the previous years. I will also adapt myself soon in Japan.
-What results did you have after youve looked into Japanese pitchers?
They have excellent control and can throw balls which appear as strikes. I will shorten my swing since their curves are great, and they throw low pitches well.
-Who do you think is the best pitcher?
Of course its Matsuzaka (Seibu Lions). I have beat him before, but its different now. He has become more perfect with his pitch speed and control. Its going to be tough to take on him.
-Coach Valentine said that it cant be assured that you will be a starter
A professional player will be dismissed if he is of no worth. I was the best in Korea, but I havent shown anything yet in Japan. I will do my best to be a starter with the attitude of a new player.
-How was your New Year holiday?
I rested at home and did the New Years greetings to the elders. My father gave me 100,000 won as New Years gift money.
-Why did you wear glasses?
I want to look intellectual (as he smiled)
-You are not coming to Korea for a while. What do you want to say before you head for Japan?
Playing in Japan will be the turning point of my career. I feel responsible for performing well.
Lee Seung-yeop, arriving at Japan, attracted huge interest by the Japanese press on the day and will begin training at Chiba Lotte Marines Stadium from January 26.