Padres Minor League News: B.Y. Choi faces growing pains in Padres organization

B.Y. Choi is making strides in his first year with the San Diego Padres organization, transitioning from the Arizona Complex League to the more competitive environment of the California League. After being drafted in the 20th round in 2023 from New Mexico Military Institute, Choi is eager to prove himself.

This summer, he faced challenges and opportunities, including a memorable experience pitching against Yu Darvish during a simulated game at Petco Park.

“Really cool,” Choi said as quoted by the San Diego Union-Tribune. “I faced Darvish.”

“A little bit (nervous), but excited. It was just for fun. I was so excited," He added.

The 22-year-old infielder has shown promise, hitting four home runs and driving in 18 runs with a batting line of .262/.405/.424 over 55 games. However, the jump to the California League has tested him, as he currently holds a batting average of .222 with 28 strikeouts in just 19 games.

Choi’s journey began in South Korea, where he went undrafted after high school. With the help of a recruiting company, he moved to the U.S. to attend the New Mexico Military Institute, where he excelled and caught the Padres' attention. His time in the minors has been an educational experience, highlighted by interactions with fellow South Korean player Ha-Seong Kim during spring training.

“That was so exciting,” Choi said. “I worked with him. He was really nice, really cool.”

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As the season progresses, Choi aims to continue improving and hopes to contribute to the Padres in the future. Meanwhile, the Padres' minor league teams are also making headlines, with notable performances across various levels, including Wandy Peralta's rehab stint in San Antonio and strong showings from the Fort Wayne TinCaps and Lake Elsinore Storm.

“Not that bad, not that great,” Choi said of his season between the lines. “I need to improve in everything in baseball.”