Two-year grace period → 36-year-old KBO debut, why would Choi Ji-man choose a 'Korean U-turn'
Two-year grace period → 36-year-old KBO debut, why would Choi Ji-man choose a 'Korean U-turn'
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Choi Ji-man, who does not have a team, expressed his desire to finish his major league career and return to Korea to continue his career in the KBO League.온라인카지노
Choi has been training with the LG Twins team that is holding spring camp in Scottsdale, Arizona. "I am considering Korea and Japan as well. I want to play in Korea more," Choi said of his future.
Major League clubs have started spring camps, but Choi has yet to sign a minor league contract. He has been invincible since he exercised his right to opt out in June last year. As his contract status dragged on, he seriously agonized over his future.
The military service issue has not been resolved yet, and it is difficult to sign a contract with good conditions from major league clubs anymore. Last year, he received offers from three Japanese professional teams, but refused, saying, "Now is not the time to play in Japan."
While training at the LG camp, Choi even asked manager Yeom Kyung-yeop for advice on his future. "Choi Ji-man seems to have a strong desire to return to Korea and play in the KBO League. I heard Japan is also considering it, but I think he will go back to Korea," Yeom said.
Choi considered it after retirement after his playing career. If Choi retires after playing in Korea for two to three years, he also has a dream to become a baseball leader.
Even if Choi returns to Korea, he cannot immediately sign a contract with the KBO. Choi signed with the Seattle Mariners of the Major League ahead of graduation from Dongsan High School and advanced to the U.S. The KBO has a two-year grace period for amateur players who play overseas without going through the KBO League. It is a kind of disciplinary action.
In addition, Choi Ji-man's military service issue has not been resolved yet. Choi acquired permanent residency in the U.S., delaying his mandatory military service until the age of 37. Choi said in the past, "Even if I have permanent residency, I will fulfill my military service obligations." "If I want to play in Korea, I have to solve the military service issue. If I return to Korea, I will fulfill my military service obligations," Choi said.
After returning to Korea this year and completing his military service, there will be a two-year grace period. He will be able to participate in the Rookie of the Year draft in 2027. By 2027, Choi will be 36. If he manages himself well during his two-year hiatus, he will be able to play for two to three years. But if he returns to Korea after another year or two, his chances of playing as a player will decrease.