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Hank Conger to experience playoffs for the 1st time

September 24, 2014

Hank Conger has a reason to celebrate. (Korea Times file)

By The Korea Times Los Angeles staff

Hank Conger is going to the playoffs for the first time in his Major League career. It’s been a less than stellar season for the 2006 Angels’ first-round draft pick, but the first trip to the postseason just might make it all worthwhile for him.

The Los Angeles Angels clinched the American League West on Tuesday night with a 2-0 road victory over the division rival Oakland A’s. It’s the Angels’ first division title since 2009, and Conger, 26, whose Korean name is Choi Hyun, made his MLB debut in 2010.

Conger actually played an important role in the division title clinching game despite going 0 for 3 at the plate. Despite his hitting issues, his work from behind the plate was recognized by Angels’ starting pitcher, C.J. Wilson, who pitched Monday night in the first game of the series.

“Our defense and Hank’s calls behind the plate were critical in keeping [Oakland's] seven hits to zero runs,” according to Wilson in a post-game interview with ESPN.

The Angels give off the impression that they are a supportive squad, which might be an intangible factor that gives them an edge as they prepare for the playoffs.