Pittsburgh Pirates: Will Craig heading to KBO

For a time, Will Craig was a laughingstock. He was the Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman that infamously forgot to step on first base to get Javier Baez out, leading to the ridiculousness of a rundown between first and home, a run scoring while Baez called his teammate safe, and the Cubs infielder ending up on second because of general ineptitude. At this point, that play is ingrained in the minds of baseball fans, and will be part of blooper reels for years to come.

If ever there was a player who needed a fresh start, it is Craig. He is set to get just that, as he is heading to Korea, having signed with the Kiwoom Heroes.

Former Pittsburgh Pirates prospect Will Craig gets a fresh start

There was a time when Craig appeared likely to have a bright future in Pittsburgh. He was one of their top prospects, being named to the 2019 Future’s Game as part of the National League squad. Craig had a solid showing in Triple-A that year, with a .249/.326/.435 batting line, 23 homers, and 23 doubles in his 556 plate appearances.

However, that success did not translate at the major league level. Craig had a .203/.261/.281 batting line in his 69 plate appearances with the Pirates, hitting one homer and two doubles while striking out 23 times. He had been designated for assignment twice and removed from the 40 man roster, but had remained with the organization.

Still just 26 years old, it is entirely possible that Craig can fulfill his potential. Other players have gone overseas to rejuvenate his career, and Craig may be able to do the same. However, given the emphasis on attention to detail and the fundamentals of the game, it would not be a surprise if his first practice with the Heroes involves his stepping on first for an hour or two.

With his excellent power potential, Craig could easily become a star in Korea. He could also get a better feel for the strike zone and learn to make better contact, potentially leading to a return stateside. Craig’s major league journey may not be at an end just yet.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have allowed Will Craig to pursue opportunities overseas. He will not try to resurrect his career with the Kiwoom Heroes in the KBO.