Is the MLB Lockout Stall Prompting Big Talents to Look at Japanese and Korean Baseball Leagues?

Still in play, the MLB world went into a lockout at the start of December. A month later, as the players remain unaware and impatient about their future, some notable names have shifted their future to what’s next best after Major League Baseball.

The Japanese Baseball League and Korean Baseball League are considered the World’s second and third best leagues. After some prominent signings already, fans are wondering if MLB stars will also make the drastic change.

Asian League scout sheds light on the MLB transfers

As the MLB lockout has put players’ future in doubt, some stars have taken flights to secure their future. Third baseman Rio Ruiz, and former New York Yankees player, Chris Gittens, signed a deal with Asian league teams. Interestingly, the list doesn’t end here. Yasiel Puig, Freddy Galvis, and Ivan Nova also changed their league. Notably, former Pirates prospect, Gregory Polanco, is also reported to close a deal in Japanese land.

In conversation with CBS Sports, the Asian league scout opened up on the MLB star’s potential shift to Asian leagues. He said, “I’m actually not sure that is the case. I’d like it to be, I thought it might be, but it looks a little ‘business as usual’ to me.”

Read More: “They Ran Out Of Time”- New York Yankees And Carlos Correa Were ‘Close To A Deal’ Before MLB Lockout

American baseball stars changing leagues? Unlikely

Although not denying their skills, the MLB players who have shifted to the Asian league did not have the same demand as Carlos Correa and other top free agents. Undoubtedly, once the lockout ends, MLB franchises are going to aggressively put out huge deals in front of stars.

Interestingly, Carlos is reported to grab a $300 million above deal once the lockout ends. Although players like Carlos and Freddie Freeman might not be looking at the Asian League, do you think other players will switch leagues if the MLB lockout stays put any longer?

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