Doosan Bears Intensify Training After Record-Breaking Error Season
Players endure grueling defensive drills in Miyazaki to overcome 103 errors.
1Defensive Crisis Response
The Doosan Bears professional baseball team has initiated an intensive training camp in Miyazaki, Japan. This rigorous program follows a disappointing 2026 season characterized by 103 defensive errors. Players are actively seeking to rectify these performance gaps through specialized drills designed to improve fundamental fielding skills and overall team coordination.
2Miyazaki Training Environment
For the second consecutive year, the team has chosen the specific black soil fields of Miyazaki for their off-season preparation. This environment is intentionally chosen to simulate challenging conditions that test player agility and focus. The unique texture of the soil forces athletes to adapt their defensive movements during high-speed ground ball drills.
3High-Volume Fielding Drills
The training regimen includes punishing sessions where players face up to 300 ground balls, known as fungo drills. These repetitions are designed to build muscle memory and mental toughness under physical exhaustion. By pushing past their limits, the players aim to eliminate the lapses in concentration that contributed to their previous error count.
4Player Commitment Levels
Despite the grueling nature of the exercises, players are actively requesting increased intensity from their coaching staff. Many are seen covered in dirt, demonstrating a high level of dedication to the process. This proactive attitude reflects a collective desire to transform their defensive identity before the start of the next competitive season.
5Addressing Tactical Failures
The 103 errors recorded in 2026 represent a significant statistical hurdle for the Doosan Bears organization. By focusing on these specific defensive metrics, the coaching staff is prioritizing error reduction over other aspects of spring training. This targeted approach aims to stabilize the team's infield performance and reduce unnecessary runs allowed during games.
6Physical and Mental Conditioning
Beyond technical fielding skills, the camp emphasizes building the physical stamina required for a full professional season. The repetitive nature of the 300-ball drills serves as a conditioning tool that prepares players for the late-game fatigue often associated with defensive mistakes. Mental resilience is cultivated through these demanding, repetitive, and high-pressure training scenarios.
7Strategic Organizational Shift
The decision to return to Miyazaki for a second year indicates a long-term commitment to this specific training methodology. The organization believes that the combination of specialized soil conditions and high-volume repetitions is the most effective way to address their defensive shortcomings. This consistency in training location provides a stable foundation for improvement.
8Future Performance Outlook
The success of this intensive camp will be measured by the team's defensive stability in the upcoming season. If the players can successfully integrate these high-intensity habits into their game-day performance, the Doosan Bears expect a significant reduction in errors. The ultimate goal remains achieving a more reliable and competitive defensive standard.
Original article: Chosun Ilbo — Doosan Bears Intensify Training After Record-Breaking Error Season