The KBO Executive Committee rejected Ulsan Whales' request for an exception to the Asian quota total limit, which would have excluded transfer fees. The club sought the exception to secure transfer fees for players like Okada Akitake and Kobayashi Jui.
Former MLB infielder Choi Ji-man has signed a one-year deal with the Ulsan Whales of the KBO Futures League. The 34-year-old veteran aims to regain form and prove his fitness for the upcoming KBO draft following a career in the United States and recent military service.
Former MLB first baseman Choi Ji-man, 34, has signed a one-year deal worth 30 million won (~$20,260) with the Ulsan Whales of the KBO Futures League. Choi played 525 MLB games from 2016-2023, hitting 67 home runs and 238 RBIs. He became the first South Korean position player to appear in a World Series with Tampa Bay Rays in 2020. Eligible for this year's KBO draft after last playing Triple-A in May 2024, Choi will use his time with the Whales to prove he can still contribute to a KBO club.
