By Kang Seung-woo
Staff Reporter
Doosan Bears catcher Hong Sung-heon began his career in 1999 with the Seoul-based team and won the Rookie of the Year award.
In 2001 and 2004, the 30-year-old energetic buff took the Golden Gloves and was selected as the Most Valuable Player in last year's All-Star Game.
He has led the Bears as a captain for two consecutive years and is one of only six remaining players from the 2001 Korean Series championship team.
In short, Hong has been an icon for the Bears, however, he now wants to leave the team to continue his job as a catcher.
``I want to play catcher and retire as a catcher, but it's not easy with the Bears because the team requires me to contribute as a hitter,'' said Hong.
``I asked my manager Kim Kyung-moon for a trade on Saturday. The boss understood my proposal and I know he is looking for a negotiating partner.''
Hong's decision to depart came after the Bears planned to play the catcher in other positions.
Headman Kim, who was also a catcher for the OB Bears, a predecessor of the Doosan Bears, coaxed Hong to move to first base in 2005, he also practiced in the outfield last season.
``The manager prevented me from playing the position throughout the season, and substituted Chae Sang-byeong, who did a good job, for me'' he said.
He had the career-worst record of five home runs and 39 RBIs with a batting average of .268 in an injury-shortened 80 games, where he was used mostly as a pinch or designated hitter.
Hong has trained at his alma mater, Kyunghee University, to rise again in his original position since last month.
With his trade publicized, the Bears' front office has undertaken the work.
``We heard of his request from manager Kim but haven't talked with Hong yet. We plan to meet him next week,'' the baseball club said.
``As his salary is 310 million won, his trade will not be easy.''
It said the director of management and public relations will meet with him soon to try and persuade him to stay with the Bears.