Incheon: When Go Woo-suk signed a two-year deal with the San Diego Padres in January 2024, the right-hander probably didn't think he would be stuck in the minor leagues for the next two seasons without ever reaching the big stage. But the 27-year-old is far from discouraged, as he continues to be fueled by his career-long dream of pitching in Major League Baseball (MLB).
According to Yonhap News Agency, Go expressed his determination despite the challenges faced in the minor leagues. "Honestly, it hasn't been easy living in those conditions the past two years, but I'd be lying if I said I hadn't braced myself for that," Go told reporters at Incheon International Airport before flying to Saipan with the national team for training camp ahead of the World Baseball Classic (WBC). He remains optimistic, believing that learning from his experiences in the minors will eventually lead him to success in the MLB.
Go's journey to the United States followed a successful career as a dominant closer for the LG Twins in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). After his initial struggles with the Padres, Go was traded to the Miami Marlins in May 2024. However, the Marlins released him in June last year, and the Detroit Tigers offered him a minor league deal. Go finished the season in Triple-A and hit free agency before re-signing with the Tigers organization last month.
Health plays a crucial role in Go's aspirations, as he was slowed by injuries last season. On Friday, he claimed to be fully healthy, which is essential for his prospects in the upcoming WBC. Go had been selected for the 2023 WBC but was unable to participate due to a pre-tournament injury. He is now focused on staying injury-free to ensure his availability for the tournament.