Two weeks ago, the MLB International Signing began where MLB teams are able to acquire amateur international players. This year, the Pirates went all out by signing 22 players on the first day of the international signing Period. However, they did not stop there. As a result, of their international push for talent, Shim Jun-seok Signs with the Pirates making it their second top draft prospect.
The first top international prospect they made a deal with was Carlos Mateo, a 17-year-old outfielder from the Dominican Republic. On the other hand, signing Jun-Seok Shim to the Pirates was a deal that took 2 years in the making.
This is because the Pirates have been watching Shim Jun-Seok since 2020. thanks to his signature 100mph fastball and curveball. That year, he became an international baseball prospect with an 1.42 ERA. This was while striking out 32 in 19 innings for Seoul’s Duksoo High School.
In the end, the Pirates were able to convince Shim to withdraw from the KBO draft as a top pick. Of course, this was a disappointment to those who like to bet on baseball in South Korea.
Shim Jun-seok Signs with the Pirates for a $750,000 Bonus
As part of signing with the Pirates, Shim Jun-Seok will get a $750,000 bonus. The 194 centimeters and 103 kilograms player will first spend some time in the Dominican Republic. Afterwards, he will be joining the organization’s Florida Complex League team.
Before joining the Pirates, Shim Jun-Seok already had his eyes set on the playing in the MLB. He said that it has “been his “dream to play in the United States”. Shim’s appeal to the Pirates is easy to understand. While his fastball usually averages between 94-96 MPH, it can also reach the triple digits. In addition, his fastball has a spin that gives it the illusion that it is rising.
According to sports news, it is not just his talent as a baseball player that makes him a top prospect. It is also because he shows an impressive amount of composure. Despite undergoing injury challenges and a lot of pressure on the mound, he always steps up to the challenge.
Even though he still has a long way before he makes his debut at PNC Park, he is happy to start his career with the Pirates.
According to baseball betting websites, Shim is the third South Korean players to join the Pirates organization. This is because he now joins Choi Ji-man and Bae Ji-hwan, who made his MLB debut last season.
What is the MLB International Signing
The difference between the MLB draft and the MLB International Signing is not just the time it takes place. During the MLB Draft, it is for players born in the U.S. Canada and Puerto Rico. All others fall into international free agency or MLB International Signing.
Furthermore, eligible players must be must be 16 years old and turn 17 by September 1 of the following year. In addition, teams have limits on how much money they can spend on players. Overall, the amount their depend on their revenue and market size.
For international players under 25 years of age, they can only sign a minor-league contract.
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