From Starter to Reliever: How Moon Dong-ju Became Hanwha's Playoff Hero Ahead of the Korea Series

The Rise of Moon Dong-ju: From Unknown Rookie to Playoff MVP

Few expected a 22-year-old pitcher to become the face of Hanwha’s 2025 playoff run, but Moon Dong-ju did exactly that. Once known only within the farm system, Moon emerged as the most dominant force in the KBO playoffs, earning MVP honors with a 70.1% vote from the press corps. His journey began as a starter during the regular season, but it was his shift to the bullpen that changed everything. In the pivotal Game 1 and Game 3 of the PO against Samsung, Moon delivered 6 innings of scoreless relief, striking out 10 batters while allowing just one hit. His electric fastball and pinpoint control silenced one of the league’s most dangerous lineups, turning the tide in Hanwha’s favor. What made his performance even more remarkable was his adaptability. Having never served as a true reliever before, Moon embraced the challenge, preparing at a moment’s notice when the bullpen phone rang. His composure under pressure and relentless focus turned him into a postseason legend overnight .

A Team’s Redemption: Hanwha’s 19-Year Journey Back to the Korea Series

For Hanwha fans, this season has been nothing short of miraculous. After 19 years of heartbreak and near-misses, the Eagles are finally back on the biggest stage. The last time they reached the Korea Series in 2006, a young Ryu Hyun-jin was just beginning his career. Now, with Ryu back as the team’s ace, history feels like it’s repeating itself. Hanwha’s path wasn’t easy. They started the season near the bottom of the standings, but a stunning 15-5 record in September propelled them to the top. Their new home, Hanwha Life Eagles Park, became a fortress, selling out every postseason game and creating an electric atmosphere that fueled their momentum. Owner Kim Seung-yeon’s unwavering support—gifting steaks to the entire staff and blankets to 17,000 fans—symbolized the deep bond between the team and its supporters. This isn’t just a baseball story; it’s a cultural revival. Hanwha fans, once known for their self-deprecating humor, now walk with pride, believing their long wait is finally ending .

Facing the Giants: Hanwha vs. LG in the Ultimate Showdown

Now, Hanwha turns its attention to the Korea Series, where they’ll face the powerhouse LG Twins. LG, fresh off a dominant regular season with 85 wins, boasts a deep lineup and experienced bullpen. Their 8-7-1 head-to-head edge over Hanwha this season gives them a slight psychological advantage. But Hanwha isn’t intimidated. Manager Kim Kyung-moon revealed that Moon Dong-ju could return to the starting rotation for the series, a bold move that could disrupt LG’s expectations. The 2-3-2 format means the first two games in Seoul will be crucial. If Hanwha can steal one on the road, the momentum shifts to their fortress in Daejeon. LG’s strength lies in their clutch hitters like Park Dong-won and Oh Ji-hwan, but Hanwha’s own lineup—led by Moon Hyun-bin and No Shi-hwan—has proven they can deliver under pressure. The real battle may come down to bullpen depth and managerial strategy, with Kim Kyung-moon’s aggressive style clashing against LG’s more data-driven approach under Yeom Kyung-yup .

Moon’s Personal Mission: Repaying a Debt to LG

For Moon Dong-ju, this series is deeply personal. His last start against LG on September 27 ended in disaster: 0.2 innings, 8 hits, 6 earned runs. That memory still stings, and he’s made it clear—he wants to repay the favor. I want to give it back to LG, he said with quiet determination. That loss taught him humility, but also resilience. Now, with a new role and renewed focus, he’s ready to rewrite his story. Teammates like Moon Hyun-bin and Choi Jae-hoon have earned his praise, but Moon knows the spotlight will be on him. Can he handle the pressure of starting in the Korea Series? Can he silence the roaring crowds at Jamsil? The answers will define his legacy. One thing is certain: Moon Dong-ju isn’t just playing for a title. He’s playing for redemption, for his team, and for every fan who never stopped believing .