Pedro Avila of the SSG Landers delivered a stellar performance on August 16, 2026, leading his team to a convincing 6-0 victory over the LG Twins at Jamsil Stadium in Seoul.
Why it matters: Avila’s outstanding performance secured his fourth win of the season and marked SSG's first winning series against LG in 1,480 days.
Avila pitched 7 innings, allowing only 4 hits, 2 walks, and recording 8 strikeouts without giving up a run.
SSG achieved their first winning series against LG since July 26-28, 2022, breaking a long-standing drought.
The victory is particularly important as SSG has struggled with foreign players underperforming this season.
Driving the news: Avila's routine, developed over the past 6-7 years, involves filming his pitching sessions and reviewing them for feedback, often discussing his performance with his uncle.
He stated, "Since 6-7 years ago, I've been recording my pitching and monitoring it. Whenever possible, I call my uncle for feedback. This routine has helped a lot."
On the day of the match, Avila threw a total of 100 pitches, including a fastball that reached speeds of 156 km/h.
He mixed various pitches, including two-seam fastballs, cutters, curves, and changeups to dominate the LG lineup.
State of play: The game had its tense moments, especially in the sixth inning when Avila faced a bases-loaded situation with one out.
After giving up consecutive walks to Hong Chang-ki and Park Hae-min, he allowed a single to Shin Min-jae, loading the bases for LG.
Avila managed to induce a ground ball from Austin Dean, resulting in a double play that ended the threat.
Dean's frustration was evident as he threw his helmet to the ground after being tagged out at first base.
The big picture: Avila’s success comes at a time when SSG has been grappling with injuries and underperformance from foreign players.
SSG's other foreign pitcher, Thomas Hatch, was recently sidelined due to shoulder pain, which has compounded the team's challenges.
Hatch, who had been scheduled to start against LG, recorded a disappointing 2 wins and 4 losses this season before his injury.
In his absence, SSG has seen a resurgence in performance, largely attributed to Avila's contributions.
What they're saying: Avila expressed admiration for his fellow Venezuelan pitcher Carlos Carrasco, who he faced in the game.
He noted, "Carrasco is a legendary player from Venezuela. We have a friendship and talk frequently."
Carrasco, who pitched for LG, had a rough outing, allowing 5 runs on 8 hits, marking his highest runs allowed in a single game since joining the KBO.
Avila's victory over Carrasco is particularly sweet, as they previously played together in MLB with the Cleveland Guardians.
By the numbers: The game highlighted several key statistics that underline Avila's dominance and the team's resurgence.
Avila's 8 strikeouts brought his season total to 50, solidifying his position as one of the top pitchers in the league.
SSG's offensive performance included 6 runs scored, with notable contributions from multiple players throughout the lineup.
Blai Madris, playing his farewell game, also shone with 2 hits, including a home run, and 2 runs scored during the match.
What's next: After this victory, SSG Landers looks to build on their momentum in the upcoming games.
Avila's next scheduled start will be closely watched as fans hope he can continue his impressive form.
SSG is expected to announce a replacement for Hatch, who is out indefinitely due to his shoulder injury.
With the team’s recent success, they aim to climb back up the KBO standings and secure a playoff spot by the end of the season.