Ryan Weiss, the standout pitcher for the Hanwha Eagles, delivered a stellar performance in the KBO Champions Field All-Star Game on September 16, striking out two and allowing two runs over four innings against KIA. Yet, concerns arise as projections place him in the Houston Astros’ bullpen rather than the rotation for potential postseason action.
Challenges in MLB Simulations
Analysis of the Astros’ projected postseason roster highlights Weiss’s struggles in simulated matchups. He failed to strike out any of six key pitchers: Spencer Arrighetti, Hunter Brown, Mike Burrows, Imanol Diaz, Cristian Javier, and Lance McCullers Jr. Observers note this raises doubts about his readiness for high-stakes roles.
The evaluation emphasizes that while Weiss competes effectively against camp standouts like AJ Blubaugh, Peter Lambert, and others, pitchers such as Arrighetti and McCullers maintain advantages with additional pitch options. “Weiss and Blubaugh, Lambert are pushing hard, but Arrighetti and McCullers hold edges with two more jars,” the analysis states.
Exclusion from Rotation Projections
Separate projections on MLB.com omit Weiss from the rotation entirely, listing Brown, Imanol, Javier, Berros, McCullers Jr., Arrighetti, and others as frontrunners. This absence fuels speculation that securing a Major League rotation spot remains challenging without stronger simulation results.
Impressive KBO Stats and Astros Deal
Weiss boasts dominant numbers with Hanwha this season: 30 games, 16 wins, 5 losses, 178 2/3 innings pitched, 207 strikeouts, and a 2.87 ERA. He signed a one-year deal with a 2027 club option worth $10 million (about 14.4 billion KRW) with the Astros. The contract guarantees $26 million (37 billion KRW), with the option adding another $74 million (106 billion KRW).
Previously with the Toronto Blue Jays, Weiss posted two minor-league strikeouts but showed promise. His move to Hanwha unlocked ace potential, particularly after acing the spring camp innings test.
Praise from Astros Leadership
Houston Astros executive director Dana Brown endorses Weiss enthusiastically. “I like Weiss mainly because he’s adjusted well to Korea. His fastball hits 97 mph (156 km/h), and his slider reaches 94 mph (151 km/h)—that’s top-tier stuff,” Brown said. “At 1.93m tall, he’s big, strong, and delivers quality swingman innings with swing-and-miss potential.”
Brown adds that MLB demands pitchers who eat innings alongside strikeouts. “Especially two guys like him who rack up fastball strikeouts—it’s already great, and the difference is innings volume.”
Weiss’s Perspective on Innings
Weiss prioritizes durability. “My goal is simply piling up innings. Inning volume is crucial here in Korea too,” he stated. “Other foreign pitchers say mound access or innings matter most. That’s why I’m confident despite swingman rotations in simulations.”
In Houston Chronicle interviews, he elaborated: “My focus is innings. Korea pitchers emphasize this too. Foreign arms hear ‘climb the mound or eat innings to thrive.’ That effort pays off in key moments.” Despite missing strikeouts against six aces, Weiss leverages swingman upside for rotation viability.
Upcoming Hanwha Schedule
The Eagles face Samsung Lions in Daegu on September 25, halting their momentum. Recent outings include a September 29 home win and an October 30 Korea Series clash with LG Twins, where Weiss eyes redemption.
