Wiz Shortstop Kwon Dong-jin Suffers Orbital Fracture in Korean Series
Kwon avoids surgery after being struck by a batted ball during Game 5.
1Injury During Korean Series
KT Wiz shortstop Kwon Dong-jin sustained an orbital fracture during Game 5 of the Korean Series. The incident occurred in the bottom of the eighth inning at Daegu Samsung Lions Park. Kwon was struck by a hard grounder hit by Samsung Lions batter Kim Young-woong while attempting to field the ball.
2Immediate Medical Response
Following the impact, Kwon collapsed on the field in visible pain as a run scored for the opposition. He was immediately attended to by medical staff and transported off the field via ambulance. The game continued, ultimately concluding with a 12-1 victory for the Samsung Lions, securing their first title in twelve years.
3Diagnosis and Surgery Status
The KT Wiz organization confirmed on Monday that Kwon does not require surgery for his injury. Subsequent medical tests revealed an orbital fracture but confirmed that his eyes sustained no structural damage. This positive outcome allows the player to avoid invasive procedures, focusing instead on a recovery plan monitored by team medical staff.
4Ongoing Recovery Monitoring
Doctors will continue to observe Kwon's condition over the next two weeks to ensure proper healing. The primary concern for medical professionals is the remaining blood pooled in his right eye. This monitoring period is essential to prevent potential complications and ensure that the injury resolves without further medical intervention or long-term vision issues.
5Player Performance Context
The injury occurred during Kwon's first start of the five-game series against the Lions. Despite the unfortunate exit, he had performed well at the plate during the match, recording two hits in three at-bats. His contribution was part of a challenging game for the KT Wiz, who struggled against the Lions' offensive pressure.
6Impact on Team Dynamics
Losing a starting shortstop mid-game significantly disrupted the KT Wiz defensive alignment during the decisive final game. The team was unable to recover from the momentum shift following the injury and the subsequent scoring play. This event marked a difficult conclusion to the series for the KT Wiz, who finished as the runners-up.
7Nature of Orbital Fractures
Orbital fractures involve breaks in the bones surrounding the eye socket, often caused by high-velocity impacts like baseballs. While these injuries can be severe, the absence of ocular damage is a critical factor in determining the recovery timeline. Athletes typically require rest and observation to allow the bone to heal naturally without surgical stabilization.
8Series Conclusion Summary
The Samsung Lions clinched their first Korea Baseball Organization title in twelve years following this victory. While the series ended on a somber note due to Kwon's injury, the focus now shifts to the offseason. Kwon will undergo a period of rest and recovery before returning to baseball activities for the next season.