"If We Can't Win Gold with This Roster, We Might as Well Enlist" ... Jung-ho Kang Predicts the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Lineup

[Financial News] "If we can't win a gold medal with this roster, we might as well enlist. We should serve our country and come back."
Former major leaguer Jung-ho Kang delivered a pointed yet encouraging message, expressing confidence that the baseball team at the 2026 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya can win its fifth consecutive gold medal.
On the 14th, Jung-ho Kang unveiled his predicted lineup for the 2026 Asian Games baseball team through his YouTube channel, "King Kang." Assessing the team's batting order, he said, "It has everything from power hitting and the ability to get on base to speed. Every batter from No. 1 through No. 9 can erupt at any time." He rated it as one of the strongest lineups in history.
The centerpiece of the best lineup Jung-ho Kang drew up himself is the heart of the order featuring No. 3 third baseman KIM Do-young and No. 4 designated hitter Roh Si-hwan. He said, "With Roh Si-hwan holding down the No. 4 spot, opposing pitchers won't be able to easily walk KIM Do-young," identifying the synergy between the two sluggers as a formula for victory.
The biggest surprise is second baseman Park Jun-soon, who was placed in the No. 5 spot. Jung-ho Kang praised his potential, saying, "Despite his young age, he shows no sign of being nervous while playing. He calmly fulfills his role 100 percent." Regarding the catcher position, he expressed deep disappointment over the omission of Hur In-seo, whose offensive numbers are outstanding. At the same time, he pointed out that in a short series, defensive catchers are especially important for skills such as pitch calling and blocking.

Jung-ho Kang also offered a clear answer on how to manage the pitching staff, which could decide the outcome of the short tournament. Emphasizing the importance of the group-stage game against Taiwan on the 21st, he argued, "There's no need to hold back just because it's the first game. We absolutely have to beat Taiwan. We should start our established ace, Kwak Bin." He warned that Taiwan's and Japan's corporate-league baseball pitchers are highly capable, adding that only a solid pitching staff and well-organized defense can secure victory.
Finally, Jung-ho Kang offered an optimistic assessment, saying, "We have an established ace in Kwak Bin, and the bullpen is strong as well. We should comfortably win a fifth straight title." Addressing his younger teammates, he delivered a characteristically candid and direct warning—"If you don't win it, you'll have to enlist"—as an affectionate but sharp reminder from a senior player.
[email protected] Jeon Sang-il Reporter