Major League Baseball has been playing series overseas for years. The KBO wants in on that action.
According to Yonhap News, the Korean Baseball Organization is looking to have their opening series stateside. Should an agreement take place, this would happen in 2024 due to the World Baseball Classic returning in March 2023.
KBO looking to bring game to United States
These games would be part of an agreement with MLB to play in South Korea. KBO commissioner Koo-youn Heo proposed having the league begin the season stateside, while the major league season begins overseas. Heo stated that talks are ongoing as the two leagues continue to explore options.
Even if the leagues agree in principle, there would be possible roadblocks. Teams may not be enamored with the idea of heading to the US to begin their season, especially as players would need to be ready sooner, leading the a greater possibility of injury. Heo also may not be the commissioner in 2024 as his term is set to expire in 2023. If he is not re-elected, his successor may not be as adamant about pushing this idea forward.
Nonetheless, this would be an incredible opportunity to expand the league’s reach. The KBO received far more attention stateside than usual during the pandemic as their games were broadcast stateside. Add in the fact that more players are coming from South Korea to the majors, and there would be interest in seeing those teams in person.
They are working to make that happen. As it is, Heo is in contact with the Dodgers, Angels, and Padres about hosting games should this plan come to fruition. It is a matter of getting the teams and Major League Baseball to sign off on an agreement.
The KBO could be coming stateside for their Opening Day in 2024. It could be a perfect chance to see the talent from another league.