Padres linked to former Pirates hurler who won MVP in KBO originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
It was just over four years ago when the Pittsburgh Pirates released right-hander Cody Ponce.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHe had a very brief MLB career, appearing in 20 games with the Pirates from 2020-21. Ponce then spent three years in Japan before signing a contract with the KBO's Hanwha Eagles for the 2025 season.
The 31-year-old became a superstar in South Korea, capturing a Pitching Triple Crown and MVP honors. Ponce's impressive 17-1 record and 1.89 ERA with the Eagles have caught the attention of MLB teams. He also set the new KBO record for strikeouts in a season with 252.
One club that could be a good fit for Ponce is the San Diego Padres, according to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand.
The Padres lack depth in the rotation
The Padres need more depth in their rotation after Dylan Cease signed a seven-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays. Yu Darvish will miss the season following elbow surgery.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThey could also lose another free agent arm, Michael King. Ponce does not have the MLB track record of either pitcher, but could be a valuable middle-of-the-rotation arm.
"Without a ton of payroll flexibility, the Padres could be forced to think outside the box, and Ponce -- who posted a 1.89 ERA in 180 2/3 innings for the Hanwha Eagles in the KBO in 2025 after three seasons in Japan -- is hoping to be the latest pitcher to find success in the Majors following a strong stint in Asia," Feinsand wrote.
Other notable pitchers who returned to affiliated baseball in the United States after a stint in Asia include Erick Fedde, Merrill Kelly, and Miles Mikolas.
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Padres star Yu Darvish out for 2026 after elbow repair and internal brace
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