Yasiel Puig’s quest to return to the majors has taken him to multiple countries. The former Los Angeles Dodgers All Star has not played in the majors since 2019, his contract with the Braves terminated when he tested positive for COVID in 2020. Puig then spent 2021 in Mexico before signing with the Kiwoom Heroes in the Korean Baseball Organization for the 2022 campaign.
It may be early, but Puig certainly appears to be having fun in the KBO. That was clear when he hit his first home run for the Heroes, and was handed a scepter and crown in the dugout after circling the bases.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig enjoying KBO
Puig has been clear that he wants to return to the majors. He is also quite clear that he wants to return to the Dodgers, although his focus really should be on finding his way back stateside first.
That could happen with a strong showing in the KBO. As it was Puig had a solid year for the Aguila de Veracruz in 2021, posting a .312/.409/.517 batting line in his 247 plate appearances, hitting ten homers and 12 doubles while stealing eight bases.
The key is whether or not Puig can behave himself. He had developed a reputation as a loose cannon, his fiery attitude and antics causing issues wherever he plays. That was the case in Mexico as well as he was a part of two benches clearing incidents which certainly did not help his cause when it came to returning to the majors.
Maybe that will happen in the KBO. Puig appears to be enjoying himself, at least thus far. Maybe that will help him to be in the right mindset to make his awaited return. At this point, if Puig is going to find his way back to the majors, it is entirely on him.
Former Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig appears to be having a great time in the KBO if his latest home run celebration is any indication.