I can't come back to Korea right away, but when will Ko Woo-seok's thorny road end
Jul 12, 2024
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Ko Woo-suk, who was one of the best closers in the KBO League, took on a major league challenge through the posting system after the end of last season. However, he joined the spring camp team without being in perfect physical condition. It takes a long time to sign a contract, and I was not 100% in condition because I was traveling between Korea and the United States. Ko Woo-suk, who did his best after joining the team in camp, did not get positive feedback in the exhibition game and was eventually eliminated from the opening roster.
Ko Woo-seok is in the position of a challenger without a major league career. Therefore, failing to enter the opening roster was quite unfavorable. Players who have established themselves can have a call-up opportunity immediately even if they are eliminated from the opening roster, but Ko Woo-seok is no different from a rookie in the Major League. As he fell behind in the opening roster competition, he was predicted to have a tough minor league life, and the prediction was right.
At first, San Diego sent Ko down to Double-A Team instead of Triple-A Team, which is a ride and thrower, to train Ko Woo-seok to adapt, but he also didn't last long. Ko Woo-seok was sent to the Miami Marlins through a large trade on May 4, the beginning of the season, and he will wear his second uniform.
Ko Woo-suk sought an opportunity with Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp, a triple-A club under Miami. However, it seems that Triple-A also failed to take away the club's attention. His Triple-A record this season was 2 wins, 2 losses, 2 holds, 1 save, and an ERA of 4.32 in 26 games. And on the 12th (Korea time), the Miami club moved Ko Woo-seok to Double A, not Triple A, and was further demoted from Triple A to Double A.
It's a difficult situation. Ko Woo-seok took on the challenge with the dream of becoming a major league player, but at this rate, he is in an increasingly difficult situation. It doesn't mean much to continue to live in the minor leagues. Ko Woo-seok had a minor relegation veto when he signed with San Diego for up to $9.4 million for 2+1 years, but not this year. There is a veto from next year.
But I can't even come back to Korea. If Ko Woo-seok returns to Korea, he should make a comeback to his original team, the LG Twins, because he played in the posting capacity, not the FA. However, according to the regulations, it is impossible to return during the first season. I can't come back until the end of this season. Somehow, we have to continue our challenge this season.
youll@sportschosun.com
