Naile’s injury devastating for KBO-leading Tigers

Former Charleston High School standout and St. Louis Cardinals pitcher James Naile gives fans and well-wishers a thumbs up after undergoing surgery to repair a broken jaw.

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A shockwave rippled through the Kia Tigers’ clubhouse and their loyal fanbase back home in Charleston, Missouri, as news broke of ace pitcher James Naile’s season-ending injury.

The right-hander, a hometown hero who’s been a cornerstone of the Tigers’ dominance this season, was struck in the face by a line drive during Saturday’s game against the NC Dinos. Naile left the field under his own power and underwent successful surgery on Sunday.

Naile’s been lights out for the Tigers. He’s racked up 12 wins this year, tops in the league, and his ERA is a stingy 2.53. The injury is expected to sideline him for at least 4-6 weeks, potentially ending his season.

The Kia Tigers have established themselves as the team to beat in the KBO this season. With a commanding 71-47-2 record, they’ve built a substantial 6.5-game lead over the Samsung Lions, setting themselves up for a potential direct entry into the Korean Series.