Ex-MLB Pitcher Returning From Korea In Line for $40M Free Agent Deal

He was a second-round pick back in the 2015 MLB Draft, but hasn't pitched in the majors since 2021. After a four-year absence, 6-foot-6, 255-pound right-hander Cody Ponce is ready to return to the big leagues after a sensational year in Korea. And insiders Ken Rosenthal and Katie Woo in The Athletic say he could be in for a massive payday.

Ponce was utterly dominant in 2025, going 17-1 with the Hanwha Eagles of the KBO, with a 1.89 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 252 strikeouts in 180 2/3 innings. He had a 252:41 K/BB ratio. Those are some eye-popping numbers. So, apparently, will be the contract offers he'll receive. 

Industry sources briefed on his market expect he will command a three-year deal of at least $30 million, and possibly in excess of $40 million.

That would blow away the previous best contract landed by a North American returning from a tour in Korea. Erick Fedde signed a two-year, $15 million deal with the Chicago White Sox two years ago. 

Before his breakout year in Korea at the age of 31, Ponce scuffled for three seasons in Japan, posting a pedestrian 4.54 ERA. 

So what was the difference in '25? According to Eno Sarris of The Athletic, his fastball was up two mph to 95, and he added a new plus splitter. 

Now, the California native Ponce is ready to pounce on a big offer to return to the States. 

He threw only 55 innings in the majors for the Pittsburgh Pirates between 2020 and 2021, with a 5.86 ERA.