Hanwha, Samsung Set for Fierce Playoff Showdown Starting on October 17

DAEJEON, South Korea — The Hanwha Eagles and the Samsung Lions will begin their playoff matchup in the 2025 Shinhan SOL Bank KBO Playoff on October 17 at Hanwha Life Ball Park. This marks the first postseason face-off between the two teams in 18 years, with high expectations for a thrilling series.

The Eagles, ranked second, finished the regular season with an equal win-loss record of 8-8 against the fourth-ranked Lions in their 16 meetings. Fans are eager to see how the contest unfolds, particularly as both teams feature standout foreign players vying for recognition as the league’s most valuable player.

Cody Ponce of Hanwha is the starting pitcher for the series opener. Having made his KBO League debut this season, Ponce topped several categories with an impressive record of 17 wins and just one loss, along with a 1.89 ERA and 252 strikeouts. His performance included a historic 17 consecutive wins, the most in KBO history. In the last previous matchup against Samsung on July 30, Ponce pitched six innings without allowing a run and struck out eight batters.

On the opposing mound will be Samsung’s Kherson Garavito. The right-hander, who joined the team this season, has faced Hanwha twice, recording one win with an impressive strikeout rate in 11 innings pitched.

Samsung’s Lewin Diaz has also emerged as a player to watch, marking a standout season that included 50 home runs and leading the league with 158 RBIs. He has previously shown his prowess in postseason play, including a memorable two-run home run in the semifinals to secure the team’s playoff berth.

Diaz, who faced Ponce during their last encounter, reflected on the challenge, saying, “If you have to choose the most difficult opponent among them, Ponce.”

Barring any setbacks, both teams will face their unique obstacles going into the playoffs, as Hanwha’s preparation is limited due to a two-week break since the end of the regular season, while Samsung’s participation in earlier rounds may affect their stamina.

This playoffs matchup is expected to bring high-energy moments, with both teams poised to showcase their best talent on October 17.