Scrappers add 2 standouts from Korea to the roster

NILES, Ohio (WKBN) – The Mahoning Valley Scrappers have officially added a pair of players from the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) to the roster.

Pitcher Sungkyung Kim and infielder Changyong Lee both previously played for the Samsung Lions of the KBO.

This is the first time in MLB Draft League history that both leagues have partnered for such an opportunity.

“We are excited for our partnership with the KBO,” MLB Draft League President Sean Campbell said. “We look forward to watching their players compete and develop in the MLB Draft League. This first-of-its-kind partnership will help the KBO players gain valuable experience as they move forward in their careers.”

In the KBO Futures League, Kim has appeared in 19 games, tossing 19 innings, while posting a 2.97 ERA with 25 strikeouts.

Lee, who plays both first base and third base, is batting .331 with a league-leading 10 home runs and 32 RBIs in the KBO Futures League.

“We would like to thank Major League Baseball, the Draft League, and the Mahoning Valley Scrappers for allowing us to be a part of this great opportunity,” said Barney Yoo of the KBO.

“The KBO is excited to send players to the draft league for the first time. This is a very meaningful first step for us, and we are looking forward to continuing to build on this relationship with the draft league and the Scrappers to help our prospects gain new experiences.”

The Scrappers return to action on Thursday, July 18 when they host the State College Spikes at 7:17 p.m. at Eastwood Field.

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