There might not be any baseball currently played in the United States, but over in South Korea, the Korean Baseball Organization has already resumed play. And now ESPN is making it so we can watch it in our own homes.
Of course we want to see our leagues back in action, but sports is sports and the KBO offers some pretty entertaining baseball. It also offers a few familiar faces for Mets fans.
Over the years, players who might have struggled to make it in MLB or are on the last leg of their playing careers have made their way overseas to play ball in either Japan or Korea. And several former Mets are currently on some Korean teams as we speak.
Here they are:
- Aaron Altherr: He had a cup of coffee with the Mets last season, hitting .129 over 31 at-bats. This is his first year in Korea, as he plays for the NC Dinos.
- Drew Gagnon: A reliever for the Mets, Gagnon appeared in 35.2 innings over the 2018 and 2019 seasons. However, a 7.32 ERA just didn't cut it, so he's trying his luck in the KBO now with the Kia Tigers.
- Chris Flexen: You might remember him from making spot starts for injured Mets rotation arms from 2017-19. He threw 68 innings with a whopping 8.07 ERA. Now he'll look to lower that ERA with the reigning KBO-champion Doosan Bears.
- Julio Franco: After 23 seasons in MLB including two years with the Mets, this former slugger is now a hitting coach for the Giants.
Also worth noting: Former Mets manager Mickey Callaway once played in the KBO as well. He spent three seasons from 2005-2007 in their league with the now-defunct Hyundai Unicorns.
So, if you'll be up at 1 a.m. to watch it live or if you're checking out the re-broadcasts, be on the lookout for these former Mets. And most importantly, enjoy watching some live sports.
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