Preview: KT Wiz at Lotte Giants

BUSAN, South Korea (Interstat) — The surging KT Wiz look to continue their early-season dominance when they visit the struggling Lotte Giants for an evening game Wednesday at Busan Sajik Baseball Stadium.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. local time under clear skies with a temperature around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.

The teams are heading in opposite directions. The Wiz (7-2) have won seven of their last eight games, including a 7-3 victory over these same Giants on Tuesday. The Giants (2-7) have lost seven of their last eight and are looking to avoid a series sweep at home.

A key matchup will feature KT right-hander Ko Young-pyo, who earned the win Tuesday with a dominant performance. He pitched five innings, allowing one earned run on six hits while striking out nine. In his previous start on April 1 against Hanwha, he went five innings with seven strikeouts in a 14-11 victory.

Lotte will counter with left-hander Na Gyun-an, who was effective in a relief role Tuesday. He held the Wiz scoreless over four innings, allowing just two hits and striking out six. In his last start on April 1 at NC, he took the loss despite allowing two earned runs over five innings.

The Wiz offense has been potent, scoring seven or more runs in five of their nine games. The Giants’ pitching staff, meanwhile, has an ERA over 6.00 during their 1-7 slump.

According to Interstat, the Wiz are projected to win with a 58.80% probability, with a simulated final score of 7-2.

Following Wednesday’s contest, the teams conclude their three-game series Thursday before both embark on new series Friday.