Houston Astros left-handed pitcher Weiss, 29, has signed a new contract with the Hanwha Eagles, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity. Despite his challenges adapting to Major League Baseball, team management shows no concerns about the move.
Announcement and Agency Shift
During spring training in Florida, Weiss shared the news through interviews and online platforms on January 14, Korean time. The signing also marks his switch to a Korean-based agency, a decision that has sparked curiosity as explanations for leaving his previous representation remain unclear.
Weiss stated, “The contract terms felt right from the start. Returning brought many experiences, and it feels truly rewarding.” He added, “Meeting new people excites me. I aim to know everyone, present myself confidently, and share more. My honest personality allows comfortable interactions with numerous fans.”
Career Background and Recent Success
Weiss debuted with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2018 but struggled to secure a steady role. After a designation for assignment in 2022, he continued in the minors and Triple-A. Joining Hanwha mid-2024 via the Dodgers’ farm system proved transformative.
In half a season with Hanwha, he delivered standout results: 30 appearances (178 2/3 innings), 16 wins, 5 losses, a 2.87 ERA, and 207 strikeouts. Analyst Ki Soon-juk noted, “Korea revealed his true pitching IQ. Those skills didn’t shine before due to lacking confidence, but now they emerge. Coming here unlocked his potential—his agency IQ soars higher.”
His first four KBO starts featured eight scoreless innings across 11 strikeouts, solidifying his ace status.
Contract and Team Strategy
Hanwha secured Weiss on a 1+1 year deal worth 260,000 dollars, with incentives up to 980,000 dollars. Despite signing other pitchers like Imay (3 years, 5.4 million dollars) and Neath Pierce (1 year, 135,000 dollars), management views him as a rotation cornerstone.
Experts highlight Weiss among top free-agent targets, alongside Hunter Brown, Habyer, Browns, McCallister Jr., Arigeti, and Alex Sander. MLB.com projects him in a crowded rotation with six strong starters, positioning him for success.
Director Daisletik remarked, “Weiss and Pierce competed intensely for jobs, but Imay and Browns’ duo impressed. Still, we expect big things.”
Manager’s Confidence
Manager Misso emphasized, “Pitching forms the foundation. Elsewhere, jobs go to the prepared—none fit better than this. We trust the process, believe in this group’s talent, and know it’s the right fit.”
The Houston spring training evaluation begins February 22.
