SEOUL, Nov. 26 (Yonhap) – The Kiwoom Heroes have re-signed former MLB All-Star outfielder Yasiel Puig, signaling a strategic shakeup for the team. Puig joins the Heroes on a one-year deal worth $1 million, marking his return to the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) after a standout 2022 season with the club.
The Cuban slugger is part of a revamped foreign-player trio that includes outfielder Ruben Cardenas and pitcher Kenny Rosenberg. Puig, 33, is the marquee name, bringing a blend of experience and star power. Known for his electric debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2013, Puig’s MLB career included an All-Star selection in 2014, though it was also marred by inconsistency and questions about his discipline.
After stints in the Dominican Republic and Mexico, Puig joined the Heroes in 2022, delivering a solid .277 batting average with 21 home runs and 73 RBIs across 126 games. He helped lead the Heroes to the Korean Series, where they ultimately fell to the SSG Landers. Legal troubles stemming from gambling charges sidelined his return in 2023, but the Heroes confirmed they have ensured Puig faces no obstacles to rejoining the KBO.
Also bolstering the Heroes’ lineup is Ruben Cardenas, who signed a $600,000 contract. Cardenas briefly appeared for the Samsung Lions in 2024, hitting two homers in seven games before an oblique injury ended his stint. Despite criticism for leaving during recovery, the Heroes emphasized his full health and commendable work ethic.
On the pitching front, Kenny Rosenberg, 29, joins the Heroes with an $800,000 deal. The left-hander made 17 appearances for the Los Angeles Angels, compiling a 4.66 ERA. Known for his versatility and repertoire—including a four-seam fastball averaging 90.2 mph—Rosenberg is expected to anchor the rotation.
Breaking from the KBO norm of two foreign pitchers and one position player, the Heroes opted for two bats in Puig and Cardenas, alongside Rosenberg. This move aims to address their offensive struggles; in 2024, the team ranked last in key batting metrics, including average, home runs, and runs scored.
“Our priority was to inject power into the lineup,” the Heroes said in a statement. “Puig and Cardenas will transform our offensive approach. With contributions from our Korean hitters, we expect a much stronger and dynamic team.”
The Heroes also highlighted the opportunity for South Korean pitchers to step up in Rosenberg’s stead, signaling a renewed focus on domestic player development. The roster overhaul follows a challenging 2024 season, during which injuries to key players like Ronnie Dawson left the team stretched thin.
Puig’s return sets the stage for compelling matchups, including potential face-offs against his former Dodgers teammate, Ryu Hyun-jin, now the ace for the Hanwha Eagles. Both debuted in MLB in 2013, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the upcoming KBO season.
