Get ready for a thrilling addition to the Hanwha Eagles' roster! The Eagles have signed former MLB pitcher Owen White, a move that's sure to spark some debate among baseball enthusiasts.
On Wednesday, the Hanwha Eagles made a bold statement by announcing the acquisition of 26-year-old North Carolina native, Owen White. With a one-year contract worth $1 million, White brings a unique skill set to the team. But here's where it gets interesting: White's major league experience might not be as extensive as some fans expect.
Drafted in the second round by the Texas Rangers in 2018, White made his MLB debut in 2023 and appeared in a total of eight games across three seasons with the Rangers and the Chicago White Sox. His record stands at 0-1 with a 12.86 ERA over 14 innings pitched. However, his performance in Triple-A this year was more promising, with a 4.44 ERA in 20 outings and 81 innings pitched.
The Eagles are excited about White's potential, highlighting his six-pitch mix, which includes a four-seam fastball, sweeper, cutter, changeup, sinker, and curveball. According to Baseball Savant, White's four-seamers averaged an impressive 92.3 mph this year. The team believes that White's command and upside as a former prospect make him a valuable addition.
White will join Wilkel Hernandez at the top of the Eagles' revamped rotation. The team had an impressive one-two punch last year with Cody Ponce and Ryan Weiss, but both have since signed with major league clubs. Ponce, who won the league MVP on Monday, joined the Toronto Blue Jays, while Weiss is now with the Houston Astros.
And this is the part most people miss: the Eagles' new rotation could be just as formidable. With White and Hernandez leading the charge, the team aims to replicate the success of Ponce and Weiss, who became the first pair of KBO teammates to each strike out over 200 batters in a single season.
So, what do you think? Is White's signing a smart move for the Eagles, or do you have concerns about his major league experience? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss!