Why Ryan Weiss’s 10th Win Is the Most Emotional Moment in His Baseball Career

The Night Ryan Weiss Made History: 10 Wins and a New Era for Hanwha

Did you know? On July 6, 2025, Ryan Weiss—nicknamed 'Daejeon Jesus' by Hanwha Eagles fans—pitched six scoreless innings against the Kiwoom Heroes, striking out 11 and allowing just two hits. This dominant outing not only secured his first 10-win season in the KBO but also helped Hanwha finish the first half of the season in first place for the first time since 1992. For a franchise long haunted by years of underperformance, this moment was more than just a win—it was a cultural reset for the team and its fans.
Weiss’s performance was a masterclass in control and composure. Despite defensive errors behind him, he escaped jams with clutch strikeouts and groundouts. After the game, Weiss expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling it the most special moment of his baseball life. His humility and team-first attitude resonated deeply with both teammates and fans.

Ryan Weiss: From Minor League Journeyman to KBO Star

Weiss’s journey to this milestone is a story of resilience. Drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks but never making it to MLB, he built his career in the minors before joining Hanwha as a mid-season replacement in 2024. After impressing in his debut season, he re-signed with Hanwha and quickly became a fan favorite. His nickname, 'Daejeon Jesus,' reflects both his savior-like impact on the mound and the almost spiritual devotion of Hanwha’s supporters.
Weiss’s stats this season—10 wins, 3 losses, a 3.07 ERA, and 126 strikeouts—place him among the league’s elite. His partnership with fellow foreign ace Cody Ponce has given Hanwha the most formidable rotation in the KBO, a key factor in their historic run.

Hanwha Eagles: Breaking the 33-Year Curse

For Hanwha fans, the 2025 season has been a long-awaited dream. The Eagles have not led the league at the halfway point since 1992, and their last postseason appearance was in 2018. This year, the team’s blend of veteran leadership, foreign talent, and homegrown stars has created a perfect storm. The Eagles’ 52-33-2 record at the break, including a six-game winning streak, has electrified their loyal fanbase.
Community boards on Naver and Daum are flooded with posts celebrating the team’s resurgence. Positive reactions dominate—fans praise Weiss’s competitiveness and the team’s fighting spirit. One top comment reads, “This is the Hanwha I’ve been waiting my whole life for.” However, some caution remains, with a few reminding others not to get complacent before the postseason.

Fan Culture and the ‘Daejeon Jesus’ Phenomenon

Hanwha’s fandom is unique in Korean sports. Known for their unwavering loyalty despite decades of disappointment, Eagles fans have developed a culture of humor, self-deprecation, and hope. The nickname ‘Daejeon Jesus’ is a perfect example—fans jokingly attribute miraculous powers to Weiss, celebrating his every win as a sign of divine intervention.
On DC Inside and PGR21, memes and celebratory posts abound. The positive-to-negative reaction ratio is overwhelmingly favorable, with fans sharing stories of watching games with family, crying tears of joy, and rediscovering their love for baseball. Even celebrities like Jo In-sung and Park Jeong-min have publicly shared their excitement over Hanwha’s success.

A Closer Look: Weiss’s Pitching Arsenal and Game Analysis

Weiss’s pitching style is built on a powerful fastball, sharp slider, and deceptive changeup. In the 10th win game, his fastball touched 152 km/h, and his slider induced numerous swings and misses. He showed remarkable poise under pressure, especially after defensive miscues, striking out key batters to escape trouble.
Analysts on Naver blogs and Tistory highlight his mental toughness and adaptability. One blogger wrote, “Weiss’s ability to reset after an error is what sets him apart—he’s not just a pitcher, he’s a leader.” His synergy with catcher Lee Jae-won has also been credited for his success, with pitch selection and framing playing a crucial role.

Cultural Insight: Why Hanwha’s Rise Matters in Korean Baseball

For international fans, it’s important to understand the emotional weight of Hanwha’s story. The Eagles are more than a baseball team—they represent the hopes of Daejeon and the broader Chungcheong region. Their underdog narrative, historic struggles, and passionate supporters make their current success a national talking point.
Baseball in Korea is deeply communal, with fans forming tight-knit communities both online and offline. Hanwha’s resurgence has reignited old traditions, from stadium chants to post-game gatherings. The team’s success is seen as a victory not just for the club, but for all those who have endured years of heartbreak alongside them.

Community Voices: What Are Fans Saying Online?

On Naver, Daum, DC Inside, FM Korea, and PGR21, the reaction to Weiss’s 10th win and Hanwha’s first-place finish is overwhelmingly positive. Sample comments include:
- “Weiss is our miracle worker!”
- “Finally, Hanwha is back where it belongs.”
- “I cried watching the last out. Thank you, Weiss!”
Negative comments are rare but often focus on concerns about sustaining momentum through the postseason. The positive-to-negative ratio is estimated at 8:2, reflecting the cautious optimism of a fanbase that has learned to hope, but also to guard against disappointment.

Looking Ahead: Can Hanwha Go All the Way?

With the All-Star break here, Hanwha’s challenge is to maintain their form and avoid the pitfalls of past seasons. Weiss’s leadership, both on and off the field, will be crucial. The team’s depth, chemistry, and the unwavering support of their fans have set the stage for a potential fairytale ending.
As one popular Tistory blogger put it, “This isn’t just about baseball. It’s about redemption, community, and believing in miracles. With Weiss on the mound, anything feels possible for Hanwha.”