Over the past few days, it has been learned that Hyun-Jin Ryu has decided to continue his career in Korea. The pitcher, who spent the last 11 years in North America, is therefore back home.
He had a great career with the Dodgers and the Blue Jays, ultimately.
He may have been too injured towards the end, but still: he brought credibility to the organization and his great 2020 season prompted guys like George Springer and Marcus Semien to sign in Toronto.
He was also a valued veteran.
We knew that one day, however, he wanted to finish his career at home, in Korea. This is done since Ryu has reached an agreement with the Eagles of his native country, as you know.
In total, he will earn $12.8 million. This is a record contract in Korea. Scott Boras at least had a record, if not placing it in North America.
That said, we thought that the pitcher was going to sign this contract for four years, or $3.2 million per year. The salary cap, however, caused the Eagles to add years to lower the annual average.
He therefore signed for eight years. Eight!
Hyun-Jin Ryu has signed an 8-year, 17 billion won ($12.8 million) contract to reunite with the Hanwha Eagles in the KBO. The deal has an opt-out clause but the team didn't disclose details. Not a 4-year pact as had been expected earlier.
— Jeeho Yoo (@Jeeho_1) February 22, 2024
He will therefore earn $1.6 million per year. He will earn around 20% of the available salary cap in Korea, which is no small thing.
The launcher is worth it, but will that still be the case in eight years? He'll be 37 in a few weeks, after all.
At 44, someone who just came back from a Tommy John will be old in eight years. The Philadelphia Flyers, however, say it's a good idea. #ChrisPronger
It remains to be seen whether the contract will age well.
- Carlos Correa is proud of his team.
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