Victor Reyes of the Lotte Giants has etched his name into the history books of the KBO League by setting a new single-season record of 211 hits. In a thrilling conclusion to the regular season at Jamsil Baseball Stadium in Seoul, Reyes delivered a masterful performance against the Doosan Bears, recording four hits in five at-bats, including a home run, to solidify his status as the league's premier hitter.
Heading into the final day of the season, the race for the most hits was a high-stakes duel between Reyes and KT Wiz's Choi Won-jun. With Reyes holding a narrow lead of 207 hits, the pressure was immense. However, Reyes showcased his elite composure, adding four more hits to his tally to finish the season with 211. This achievement surpasses the previous record and highlights his incredible consistency throughout the 144-game schedule.
What makes Reyes's feat even more remarkable is his durability. He has now played in every single game for three consecutive seasons, a testament to his physical conditioning and dedication to the sport. Over these three years, he has accumulated a staggering 600 hits, earning him the reputation of an 'hitting machine' among fans and analysts alike.
Reflecting on his historic achievement, Reyes expressed his joy, noting that his primary goal was to stay healthy and fulfill his commitment to play in all 144 games. He also took a moment to acknowledge his rival, Choi Won-jun, stating, "I want to tell Choi Won-jun that he worked very hard. It was a pleasure to compete alongside him until the very end."
Beyond his offensive prowess, Reyes earned widespread respect for his sportsmanship. When he was substituted in the eighth inning, he tipped his helmet not only to the Lotte fans but also to the home crowd of the Doosan Bears, acknowledging their support throughout the game. This gesture of professional grace, combined with his record-breaking performance, has cemented his legacy as one of the most respected figures in the KBO League.
