By Yoon Chul
Staff Reporter
SK Wyverns manager Kim Sung-keun has signed a new three-year contract two billion won worth.
The deal, which also includes a 800 million won signing bonus, made Kim the most expensive manager in Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) history.
Prior to Kim, Kim Jae-bak was the highest earning coach, having signed a three-year 1.55 billion won contract after moving to the Hyundai Unicorns, the predecessor of the Heroes.
Kim, formerly with the Chiba Lotte Marines, has clinched the championship for the Wyverns two years in a row and had a 83-43 record, which represents the most victories in KBO history.
``I appreciate the team's consideration to give me a condition to build the Wyverns for the future,'' Kim said.
``I will do my best to make my team more strong and attractive for fans,'' added Kim.
Elsewhere, Doosan Bears designated hitter Hong Sung-heon has moved to the Lotte Giants, signing a 279 million won contract for a year.
Free Agent Hong, who debuted in 1999 at the Bears, had a .291 batting average and 107 dingers with 594 RBIs as a catcher since last year.
He only started as a designated hitter this year, producing eight home runs and 63 RBIs with a .331 batting average.
``I appreciate the Giants who evaluated my value much higher. I'd like to be a main player to give my new team a champion,'' Hong said.
Of the 11 free agents who were available, Hong was the last to find a new club.