Austin Dean Follows Casey Kelly’s Legacy with LG Twins, Prioritizes Team Success

LG Twins outfielder Austin Dean is embracing a leadership role within the team, inspired by the example set by former teammate Casey Kelly. Despite a salary freeze, Dean remains committed to contributing to the Twins’ success and fostering a positive team environment.

Positive Spring Camp Impressions

Austin Dean expressed satisfaction with the 2026 LG Spring Camp held in Ishikawa, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. He highlighted the dedication of the younger players and the shared goals within the team. “I was satisfied with this camp. I felt like we all shared the same goal, but I was particularly happy with the efforts that the young players showed, and it left a deep impression on me,” Dean stated.

Comfort and Fluency in Korean

Demonstrating his integration into Korean baseball culture, Dean confidently answered questions from reporters in Korean during the spring camp, without the demand for an interpreter. He playfully acknowledged his fluency, asking, “Doesn’t what I’m saying sound right?”

Team Atmosphere and Coach Yeom’s Approval

Dean praised the team atmosphere and the leadership of Coach Yeom Kyung-yeop, describing the camp as the best since joining the LG Twins. “Coach Yeom Kyung-yeop was also particularly satisfied with the progress. As a veteran leader, I was also very happy with the mindset everyone had at the camp and the overall team atmosphere,” he said.

Korean Series Success and Physical Recovery

Having already secured two Korean Series championships with the LG Twins, Dean is focused on improving his physical condition after being limited to 116 regular season games in 2024 due to injury. He lost nearly 10 kilograms during the offseason, emphasizing his commitment to playing a fuller role in the upcoming season. “Losing weight is something I’ve had to do throughout my career. Of course it was difficult, but last year I was disappointed with my health, so I put in an even bigger effort,” Dean explained.

Contract Negotiations and Team Unity

In a surprising move, Austin Dean agreed to a contract freeze at $1.7 million ($300,000 signing bonus, $1.1 million annual salary, and $300,000 in incentives), allowing the LG Twins to more easily re-sign their existing foreign players. LG responded by increasing his guaranteed annual salary even as adjusting the incentive structure. Team leader Cha Myung-seok confirmed the smooth contract negotiations, noting Dean’s willingness to accept the terms and Tolhurst’s desire to continue playing in Korea.

Strong Bonds with Teammates

Dean expressed his enthusiasm about continuing to play alongside teammates Chirinos and Tolhurst. “I’m really happy to be able to work with Chirinos and Tolhurst again this year. I like Chirinos, and the process of getting to know Tolhurst was really wonderful. I was especially happy that Tolhurst said that he enjoyed his time in Korea and wanted to come back again,” he said.

Following Casey Kelly’s Example

Dean acknowledged the significant impact of Casey Kelly, his predecessor and friend, on his approach to being a foreign player in the KBO. He strives to emulate Kelly’s leadership and positive influence within the team. “Kelly is truly a legendary player at LG and one of my best friends. My son Dallas still loves playing with Kelly’s kids,” Dean shared. “When I first came here, Kelly showed me a great example of what to do as a foreign player. In fact, I feel that it is still difficult to fill Kelly’s vacancy. I sincerely hope that I can live up to the amazing achievements that Kelly has left at LG, but it will not be effortless.”

Dean is committed to continuing Kelly’s legacy and contributing to the LG Twins’ success for years to come.