Former MLB Star Choi Ji-man Joins South Korean Team Ulsan Whales

The return of a former Major League Baseball star to the domestic league is always a significant event, and the Ulsan Whales' signing of Choi Ji-man is no exception. As reported by The Hankyoreh, Choi's decision to join the Whales, a team backed by local government and participating in the Futures League, marks a unique chapter in his career and potentially for Korean baseball.

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Baseball is not played alone; nine people always play together. Individual performance is important, but team performance is also important, so we always play as nine people.

Choi's journey back to Korea, turning down lucrative offers from Japan and Taiwan, underscores a deep personal motivation: the desire to play for Korean fans. This sentiment, coupled with the Whales' persistent courtship, highlights the growing appeal of the domestic league and the emotional connection players can forge with their home crowd. His choice of jersey number 9, symbolizing the nine players on the field working together, reflects a team-oriented mindset that will be crucial for the developing Ulsan Whales.

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Offers came from overseas, including Japan and Taiwan, and I was shaken, but my last goal was to perform in front of Korean fans as a member of a Korean professional baseball team.

While Choi emphasizes his role as a learner, his experience as a former big leaguer, including a World Series appearance, is invaluable. He aims to guide the younger players and contribute to the team's playoff aspirations. This mentorship aspect is particularly important for the Ulsan Whales, a relatively new entity aiming to establish itself in the professional baseball landscape. His presence is expected to elevate the team's profile and potentially inspire a new generation of players.

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I didn't come here to teach, but to learn.

Choi's ambition extends to the 2027 KBO draft, signaling a long-term commitment to Korean baseball. Despite his past success in the U.S., he expresses humility regarding draft order, prioritizing the development of younger talent. This perspective is refreshing and speaks volumes about his character and his dedication to contributing to the sport's growth in his home country. The Ulsan Whales, and indeed Korean baseball, stand to benefit immensely from his talent, experience, and leadership.

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If the players have any questions, I will answer them sincerely and help the team reach the playoffs.