Former Texas Rangers outfielder Shin-Soo Choo sizzles in KBO

Shin-Soo Choo was a rarity. The former Texas Rangers outfielder had not appeared in the Korean Baseball Organization prior to coming stateside, signing a deal with the Mariners as an international free agent instead. Finally, after two decades stateside, and a 16 year major league career, he made his KBO debut this season.

Choo was well worth the wait. With his home run on Tuesday, he became the second player to hit 20+ homers and steal 20+ bases this year. Not bad for a 39 year old.

Former Texas Rangers outfielder Shin-Soo Choo has impressive first season in KBO

It was fair to wonder what, if anything, Choo would have left. While he had put together a solid enough 99 OPS+ with five homers and three doubles in his 127 plate appearances with Texas, those numbers were not going to lead to another major league job.

However, Choo is a legend in South Korea. His 34.6 bWAR is easily the best of any South Korean player in the majors, and if nothing else, his presence would draw fans to SSG Landers games. Having him on the roster would make a major difference in the bottom line.

Choo has proven to be a solid contributor despite his age. He has posted a .256/.395/.440 batting line in his 494 plate appearances, hitting 20 homers and 14 doubles while stealing 20 bases. His batting eye is still there as he has drawn 83 walks, striking out just 107 times.

Although Choo has played his final MLB game, he could still have a future in the KBO. Based on his performance this season, it would not be a surprise for the Landers to bring him back in 2022, potentially having an open invitation for him to return for as long as he wants. Choo still has something left as his performance this season shows.

Former Texas Rangers outfielder Shin-Soo Choo is impressing in his first season in the KBO. He is one of two players with a 20-20 season this year.