Choi, a former MLB first baseman, is set to return to South Korea to fulfill 21 months of mandatory military service. The 34-year-old delayed his service until the age of 37 due to his legal permanent residency status in the U.S. Choi has had a notable baseball career, particularly his performance with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he achieved a .245 batting average across five seasons. After struggling in the 2023 season and facing injury issues, he is focused on returning to the Korea Baseball Organization after completing his service in 2027.
Choi, an eight-year MLB veteran, will begin 21 months of mandatory military service in South Korea, aiming to return to baseball in 2027.
Since 1957, South Korean males aged 18-35 must serve in the military, although Choi delayed his service until age 37 due to his U.S. residency.
Over five seasons with the Rays, Choi had a .245/.352/.431 batting line and made significant contributions during the team's run to the 2020 World Series.
Choi's performance dipped in 2023, leading to a lackluster season as he struggled with injuries and a dismal .163 batting average.
Collection
[
|
...
]