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First Korean Position Player to Reach World Series Joins KBO's Second-Tier League for Debut
🇰🇷 South Korea /Sports

First Korean Position Player to Reach World Series Joins KBO's Second-Tier League for Debut

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Former Major League Baseball player Choi Ji-man, the first Korean position player to reach the World Series, made his debut in the KBO's second-tier league.
  • Choi appeared as a pinch hitter for the Ulsan Whales in a Futures League game against the Lotte Giants, going hitless in his only at-bat.
  • The 35-year-old's transition to the KBO's minor league system marks a new chapter after his extensive career in American baseball.

Choi Ji-man, the first Korean position player to ever play in Major League Baseball's World Series, has begun his career in the KBO's second-tier league. The 35-year-old appeared as a pinch hitter for the Ulsan Whales in a Futures League game against the Lotte Giants on June 27th.

Choi entered the game in the seventh inning with the score tied 1-1 and one out, representing a runner on first base. He was retired without a hit in his sole plate appearance, which ended in a strikeout. His debut marks a significant shift for the veteran player, who spent years in MLB before this move.

The Ulsan Whales are participating in the 2026 Mediheal KBO Futures League. Choi's entry into the league at this stage of his career brings attention to the KBO's development system, as the team aims to leverage his experience.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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