The Lotte Giants will begin a defense-focused training camp in Miyazaki, Japan, on Nov. 4, according to Yonhap News. The club is running the session under a name that emphasizes fielding improvement rather than the usual end-of-season label.
Yonhap reports that 50 people are taking part: 18 coaches led by manager Lee Dong-wook, 13 pitchers, three catchers, nine infielders and seven outfielders. The schedule alternates training days with rest, with one day off after each day of work.
Some players will not be present from the start. According to Yonhap, members of the squad who were sent to programs with the U.S.-based Driveline and Tread Athletics academies, or to the camps of Japan's Yomiuri Giants and Chiba Lotte Marines, will link up with the main group during the camp.
The emphasis on defense reflects a stated priority for the new staff. OSEN reported that Lee has framed fielding as a route to winning, describing the camp as part of an effort to change the team's approach. KBS News likewise covered the camp under the theme of securing outs.
What to watch next: how many of the overseas-program players join the main group in Miyazaki, and whether the club's stated focus on defense carries into its offseason roster decisions.
