Jung Hoo Lee could break KBO curse when it comes to position players

As it currently stands, Jung Ho Kang is the best position player to come stateside after beginning his career in the Korean Baseball Organization, having posted a 5.9 bWAR. Kiwoom Heroes outfielder Jung Hoo Lee could change that.

At just 24 years old, and in his sixth year in the KBO, Lee has already turned heads for years. His performance this year has only heightened expectations moving forward as he has posted an impressive .346/.418/.573 batting line with 22 homers and 35 doubles in his 605 plate appearances. He leads the KBO in each of the triple slash categories, hits (185), triples (10), and RBI (108). His ability to make contact may be the most impressive trait; although he has 22 homers, he has struck out just 31 times.

Jung Hoo Lee could be next South Korean superstar in majors

Lee has been far more than just this year. He was the KBO Rookie of the Year in 2017, when he set records for the most hits (179) by a rookie and was the youngest All Star in league history. He has set other records as well, becoming the first player in KBO history with at least 160 hits in six consecutive seasons (he has six years in the KBO), is the youngest player with 1000 hits in league history, and has the highest batting average of any player with at least 3000 career plate appearances.

While other productive KBO players came stateside and failed, Lee has the type of profile that could work in the majors. His incredible ability to make contact mitigates concerns that he would be unable to handle major league pitching. This highlight alone shows that elite contact skill.

But Lee is more than just that ability to make contact. He has excellent power, especially on lower pitches due to the natural loft in his swing. His plate discipline is also excellent as he will wait for his pitch and is content to take a walk instead of chasing outside the zone. Add in the speed and arm to play all three outfield positions, and Lee could be a star in the majors.

There are some concerns about his scouting report as well. Lee can have problems with higher velocity inside. He is also a very pull heavy hitter, especially when it comes to his power. The latter issue may not be as much of a concern once he comes over due to the banning of the shift in 2023. Lee is also starting to hit the ball more to all fields, something that could continue as he gets better instruction and continues to mature at the plate.

His speed also does not always translate to the basepaths, especially when it comes to stealing bases. Lee also could use some refinement with his baserunning as he needs work rounding the bases. However, that is a minor issue and something that can be improved with coaching.

Position players from the Korean Baseball Organization have disappointed in the majors. Jung Hoo Lee could be the player to change that.