First ‘D-8’ entry, 48 starts this year…”I miss my fans and teammates, but I’m ready to go”
Brandon Waddell (27-Dusan Bears) is in South Korea.
Brandon arrived in Korea on the 16th through Incheon International Airport.
Brandon came to the KBO last year as a foreign pitcher to replace Ariel Miranda and went 5-3 with a 3.60 ERA in 11 games.
It was not a bad performance, but he was not re-signed. Doosan wanted a more potent foreign pitcher, so they brought in Raul Alcantara and Dylan Pyle.
Dylan Pyle had a string of bad luck. He was hit in the head in spring training. He was sidelined for the opening month, and after just two games, he injured his elbow.
Doosan began searching for a replacement foreign player in mid-May. They entered negotiations with Brandon, who had been performing well in the Taiwanese League, and completed the deal for a total of $230,000.
A Doosan representative said, “Brandon showed his competitiveness in the KBO last year with his hard-hitting fastball and big-angle changeup. This year, he raised expectations in Taiwan, where he was among the top pitchers in the league with a stable performance.” 메이저놀이터
Brandon will wear number 48 this season. Last year he wore number 57. The team will train in a locker room on the 17th and 18th, then fly to Japan on the evening of the 18th to get their visas. He will make his first appearance on the 24th against the Gochukkium Heroes.
After his arrival, Brandon said, “I’m very excited to put on the Doosan jersey again. I’ll try to do better than last year. Of course, I’m in good shape to do that. I’m confident that I can play right away.”
Brandon added: “I’ve missed the fans and all my teammates. The goal is clear. I came back to the KBO because I want more than just autumn baseball. I will do my best to reach the postseason and the Korean Series.”