In the 2025 KBO rookie draft, the KIA Tigers selected right-handed pitcher Kim Tae-hyung from Deoksu High School in Gwangju with the 5th overall pick in the first round. Kim Tae-hyung, a native of Gwangju, left his previous schools to pursue baseball at Deoksu High and eventually got drafted by KIA again.
Kim Tae-hyung, with a height of 186cm and weighing 91kg, achieved a no-hitter in high school and is known for his fast fastball of up to 153km. KIA had high hopes for him, considering him one of the most complete pitchers among high school prospects this year, along with left-handed pitcher Jung Hyun-woo, who was the overall first pick for Kiwoom Heroes.
The KIA Tigers showed great excitement by selecting Kim Tae-hyung in the first round, 5th overall, aiming for him to continue the legacy of the team’s motto, “You have to live for sweat.” The team’s director, Shim Jae-hak, highlighted Kim Tae-hyung’s exceptional physical and pitching abilities and expressed his desire for him to follow in the footsteps of Yang Hyeon-jong.
KIA’s strategy in the draft focused on selecting promising pitchers to strengthen their immediate and future pitching resources. The team’s management expressed satisfaction with the draft results and emphasized the importance of nurturing the selected players for future success.
Kim Tae-hyung’s selection by KIA garnered significant attention, as he was expected to join the team’s starting rotation and contribute to their success. His addition to the team’s pitching staff, alongside young talents like Lee Ui-ri and Yoon Young-chul, could lead to a successful rotation for the Tigers.
Overall, KIA fans and management have high hopes for Kim Tae-hyung, anticipating that he will become a fan favorite like Kim Do-yeong. Kim Tae-hyung expressed his gratitude for being selected by KIA and his determination to become a representative player for the team through hard work and dedication.