Jonathan Peraza Poised for KBO League Return After Standout Minor League Season
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A potential return to the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) League is brewing for slugger Jonathan Peraza, following reports from Venezuelan media outlets on December 18th indicating he has agreed to terms with an unnamed KBO team. The 27-year-old, currently showcasing his skills in the Venezuelan Winter League, is expected to finalize the contract after completing necessary procedures.
From Hanwha Eagles to Triple-A Success
Peraza is a familiar name to KBO fans, having previously played for the Hanwha Eagles during the 2024 season. In 122 regular season games, he demonstrated considerable power, hitting 24 home runs and driving in 70 runs while maintaining a .275 batting average (125 hits in 455 at-bats) and a solid .850 OPS. While his performance dipped in the second half – his batting average falling from .312 to .229 – his first-half success established him as a valuable offensive contributor. Ultimately, contract renewal discussions with Hanwha did not come to fruition.
Following his time in Korea, Peraza signed a minor league contract and experienced a resurgence with the El Paso Chihuahuas, the Triple-A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, in 2025. He excelled, recording a .307 batting average (166 hits in 541 at-bats) with 19 home runs and a league-leading 113 RBIs in 138 games. This performance earned him recognition as the Inner League Player of the Year and a selection to the Pacific Coast League (PCL) All-Star team, despite not receiving a call-up to the major leagues.
Continuing to Compete in the Venezuelan Winter League
Despite the conclusion of the minor league season, Peraza remains active, currently competing in the Venezuelan Winter League with the Aguilas del Giulia. As of late October, he leads the team with 3 home runs and 20 RBIs in 25 games, boasting a .241 batting average (19 hits in 79 at-bats) and a .822 OPS. He primarily plays left field alongside former Samsung Lions player Jose Pirella, who serves as the designated hitter. The Aguilas del Giulia are reportedly working to ensure Peraza participates in at least one more game before his potential move.
KBO League Teams Eyeing Offseason Reinforcements
As KBO League clubs prepare for the 2026 season, the market for foreign players is heating up alongside free agent negotiations. While announcements regarding Asian quota players have been made, news concerning foreign hitters remains scarce. The question now is whether Peraza will indeed return to the KBO League, as reported by sources in Venezuela.
