’21 Bears ‘one-club man’ shortstop Kim Jae-ho retires
Doosan Bears ‘one-club man’ Kim Jae-ho (39) retires.
The Doosan club said in a press release on the 14th, “Infielder Kim Jae-ho marks the end of his 21-year professional career. Jae-ho Kim recently informed the club of his intention to retire.”
Kim Jae-ho wore the Doosan uniform as a first-round pick in 2004, and became a starting player in earnest in 2014. While playing as the starting shortstop during the Doosan Dynasty from 2015 to 2021, he contributed to the team’s advancement to the Korean Series for seven consecutive years and winning three times (2015, 2016, 2019). In 2015-2016, he also won the Golden Glove Award in the shortstop category. His career records include playing in 1,793 games, batting average of 0.272 (1,235 hits in 4,534 at-bats), 54 home runs, and 600 RBI. Playing in 1,793 games is the most in Bears franchise history. In terms of shortstop appearances, Jae-ho Kim ranks first in the Bears franchise in most records, including hits, RBI, and home runs. That’s how steadily and sincerely he lived his professional life.
Kim Jae-ho said through the club, “It took a long time for me to blossom, but Doosan Bears fans believed in me and supported me until the end. “Thanks to that, I was able to finish my 21 years of active duty successfully,” he said. “The faces of the younger players come to mind one by one. Even though I am taking off my uniform, my heart will always be with the Doosan Bears. He said, “I will continue to support you passionately,” and added, “I will continue to live as a person who has a positive influence for the development of baseball.”
The Doosan club said, “We plan to hold a grand retirement ceremony for Kim Jae-ho during the 2025 season.”
Reporter Kim Yang-hee whizzer4@hani.co.kr
