Texas Rangers miss out on Suk-sim Yoon

Sep 23, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers starting pitcher Derek Holland (45) delivers a pitch to the Houston Astros during the ninth inning of a baseball game at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Holland pitched nine innings of shut-out baseball beating the Astros 12-0. Mandatory Credit: Jim Cowsert-USA TODAY Sports

One of the top Korean pitchers Suk-min Yoon has recently been in the states showing off his talents in front of several organizations.  Of course with the injury to Derek Holland, the Texas Rangers have kept their eye open for any potential addition to their starting rotation.

About 10 days ago, Suk-min Yoon was in Surprise Arizona and threw about 30 pitches in a bullpen session in front of officials from the Texas Rangers and the Chicago Cubs.  It was speculated the Rangers could be in, but also the Orioles were a top contender to pick up the top Korean pitcher.

Today, it was annouced that Yoon is in agreement with the Baltimore Orioles  for 3 years.

The deal seems to be a pretty deal for the Orioles.  Although last year Yoon was injuried, he still put up pretty solid numbers.  And if healthy, he’ll be an excellent addition to the starting rotation.

Yoon would have been a nice addition to the Texas Rangers rotation.

Suk-min Yoon career with the Kia Tigers

• Korean Baseball Org. statistics(through 2013)
• Win-Loss – 73-59
• Saves – 44
• Earned run average -3.19
• WHIP -1.25
• Strikeouts – 949

Last year Yoon had an ERA of 4.00 with a record of 3-6, 7 saves, 2 holds.  He did start some games last year, but also spent some time in the bullpen.

It now looks like the Texas Rangers are hoping Tommy Hanson will be able to make a comeback this year.  Also, they do have Matt Harrison and potentially Colby Lewis.  So while they didn’t get Suk-min Yoon, the Rangers have made some moves to replace Derek Holland.  Also, don’t forget, Nick Tepesch is also a solid candidate to make the starting rotation.

The Rangers might have passed on Yoon because of his recent injuries and lack of MLB experience.  Hanson does have the advantage there.  And Hanson, when healthy has been solid and very effective.  While he was with the Braves, Hanson had an ERA of 3.61.

The Orioles could be taking a chance on Suk-min Yoon.  Yoon has no major league experince, and it is hard to tell how the move will work.  With Yu Darvish it worked out very well, but with Daisuke Matsuzaka it did not.

It might turn out that Jon Daniels did the right thing and stuck to with what he already has.  He’s brought on several more pitchers and soon we’ll see how well they’ll work out.  Pitchers and catchers report to camp on Sunday.