Both maternal grandparents and mother are Korean… Contract for a total of $1 million
Started his career as an MLB Dodgers player… Maximum speed 156km
Professional baseball team SSG Landers announced on the 16th that it has signed a fully guaranteed contract worth $1 million (about 1.4 billion won) with Mitch White as a new foreign pitcher for next season.
SSG said, “White is a powerful pitcher with a fastball with excellent spin, and this season he showed off a fast ball with an average speed of 152 km/h and a maximum speed of 156 km/h. He explained the reason for his recruitment by saying, “He is also excellent at breaking balls such as two-seamers, sliders, curves, and sweepers with large angles and sharp movements.”
White, who began his career as a player with the Los Angeles Dodgers of the American Major League (MLB) through the 2016 draft, later went on to play for the Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants, and ended this year’s season with the Milwaukee Brewers.
White appeared in a total of 71 games in the major league, pitched 185 innings, and recorded a total of 4 wins, 12 losses, and an ERA of 5.25.
In the minor league, he appeared in 126 games, pitched 471 innings, and achieved a record of 26 wins, 21 losses, and an ERA of 3.93.
SSG also predicted, “White’s high fastball and large angled curve will be a big advantage in the ABS (Automatic Pitching System) environment.”
Additionally, at a time when foreign players’ adaptation to the league is becoming more important, it is expected that White, a third-generation Korean whose maternal grandparents and mother are both Korean, will be able to quickly adapt to the KBO league and Korean culture.
White, who signed the contract, expressed his feelings about joining the team, saying, “I am grateful to the SSG club for giving me the opportunity to make a new start on the KBO League stage.”
He said, “I really wanted to try playing as an athlete in my mother’s country. I think being able to play baseball in Korea has a special meaning. He added, “I will adapt to the league as soon as possible and show my fans a good side.”
Meanwhile, SSG plans to complete the recruitment process after completing White’s medical check.
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What challenges do foreign players face when transitioning to the KBO, and how might Mitch White’s background help him adapt?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Baseball Expert on Mitch White’s Move to KBO
Time.news Editor: Welcome! Today, we’re diving into the recent signing of Mitch White by SSG Landers. This is quite a notable move—can you give us insights into what makes this signing significant?
Baseball Expert: Absolutely, and thank you for having me! Mitch White is an exciting addition to SSG Landers, particularly because of his unique background and skills. As a third-generation Korean-American, he carries a personal connection to Korea, which might enhance his adaptation in the KBO. This cultural link can make a substantial difference in his performance both on and off the field.
Time.news Editor: That’s a great point. His heritage could create a smoother transition. On the field, what specific attributes does he bring as a pitcher?
Baseball Expert: White boasts an impressive arsenal. He has a fastball that averages 152 km/h and peaks at 156 km/h—this kind of velocity paired with excellent spin can be a game-changer in the KBO, especially with the implementation of the Automatic Pitching System. His capability to throw effective breaking balls, including sliders and two-seamers, also adds depth to his pitch variety, which will be crucial against diverse lineups.
Time.news Editor: He has a wealth of MLB experience, but his stats show mixed results— four wins and twelve losses, for instance. How might this translate into the KBO?
Baseball Expert: That’s a pertinent observation. While his MLB numbers might not jump off the page, the KBO can be a different environment. The league’s hitters often struggle against pitchers with his velocity and breaking pitches. If White can harness his skills effectively and adjust to the KBO’s playing style, he has significant upside. Additionally, many pitchers have found success in the KBO after facing challenges in the MLB, thanks to the league’s different dynamics.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the adaptation process. In your experience, what are some challenges foreign players face in the KBO, and how might White’s background help?
Baseball Expert: Foreign players often grapple with the language barrier, cultural differences, and the nuances of the game in Korea. However, White’s lineage and expressed desire to play in his mother’s homeland should ease his transition. Having family ties is invaluable; it can foster a support system that assists in adjustment periods. His commitment to integrating quickly could resonate well with both fans and teammates.
Time.news Editor: Following the contract signing, White stated his gratitude and eagerness to play in Korea. Do you think that mindset will be influential for him?
Baseball Expert: Absolutely! A positive attitude and a readiness to embrace the new environment can significantly influence a player’s success. His excitement about representing his heritage will resonate well with the fanbase. Players who genuinely appreciate their opportunity often perform better, impacting both morale and team atmosphere.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like he’s already building a great narrative for his time in Korea. As we wrap up, what impact do you foresee White having on the SSG Landers this season?
Baseball Expert: If he can adapt quickly and stay healthy, I envision him being a cornerstone of their pitching rotation. His skills coupled with his unique background can rally both fans and teammates. SSG Landers might have found a hidden gem here, and it will be thrilling to watch him progress in the KBO.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights! It will be fascinating to see how Mitch White’s journey unfolds in the KBO.
Baseball Expert: Thank you! I’m looking forward to it as well.