KIA Tigers Set for Ambitious Two-Phase Spring Training in the U.S. and Japan

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 16, 2025 – The KIA Tigers, reigning champions of the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO), are gearing up for an innovative spring training program to prepare for the 2025 season. The team’s approach reflects a broader trend in the KBO, as all ten clubs will conduct their spring training overseas for the first time in recent years, signaling a return to pre-pandemic practices.

The Tigers’ spring training will be split into two strategic phases:

U.S. Phase (January 25 – February 17):

• Location: Great Park Baseball Complex, Irvine, California
• Focus: Foundational fitness and skill development
• Schedule: “3 days training, 1 day rest” rotation

Japanese Phase (February 21 – March 4):

• Location: Kin Stadium, Okinawa
• Focus: Game readiness and practical application
• Highlight: Practice game against NPB’s Hiroshima Toyo Carp on February 22

The comprehensive training camp will involve 60 participants, including 22 coaching staffs and 38 players. The player roster comprises 18 pitchers, 3 catchers, 10 infielders, and 7 outfielders, with rookie pitcher Kim Tae-hyung as the sole 2025 draftee included.

To maximize performance and minimize travel fatigue, Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Euisun has arranged business class travel for the entire team on the US-bound flights. This corporate support underscores the importance of the Tigers’ preparation and is expected to boost team morale.

The KIA Tigers’ approach to spring training demonstrates their commitment to maintaining their championship status and adapting to global best practices in baseball preparation. By combining training in both the U.S. and Japan, the team aims to blend diverse baseball cultures and methodologies, potentially setting a new standard for pre-season preparation in the KBO.