Seoul: Former Major League Baseball player Keston Hiura has signed with the Kiwoom Heroes of the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), marking a new chapter in his professional career. Hiura, who made a name for himself as a power hitter, will be replacing Trenton Brooks as the team's only foreign batter, joining the Heroes as they struggle with the lowest home run count in the league.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the Heroes are counting on Hiura to bring a much-needed boost to their offensive lineup. Hiura's early career with the Milwaukee Brewers saw him hit 19 home runs in just 84 games during his rookie season in 2019. Hiura expressed excitement about the opportunity to play in South Korea, stating, "I'm ready for this experience. This can be a lot of fun." He was welcomed by his new team at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul and participated in a brief batting practice while awaiting his visa.

Hiura, who has had a fluctuating career in the MLB, believes he still has much to give. "I was able to debut fairly early in my career, played my fair amount of big league games," he shared. Hiura's move to the KBO was influenced by positive feedback from former teammates, including Josh Lindblom, a former KBO MVP, and Kenny Rosenberg, whom Hiura recently reunited with on the Heroes.

Hiura's MLB journey has been marked by highs and lows, including a standout rookie season followed by struggles in subsequent years. In 2020, despite hitting 13 home runs in 59 games, he led the National League with 85 strikeouts, and his batting average fell significantly. After spending 2023 in the minors, Hiura bounced between teams, seeking stability before his release by the Los Angeles Dodgers in April.

Now, Hiura is eager to make his mark in the KBO. "I'm ready to go out there and give everything I got," he said, emphasizing his dedication to playing hard and improving his game. Hiura, who has played multiple positions, including second base and first base, joked that his best position is "hitting," demonstrating his confidence in his offensive abilities.

Hiura, born to a Chinese American mother and a Japanese American father, is also enthusiastic about playing professionally in Asia for the first time. Reflecting on previous experiences in Japan and Taiwan with Team USA, he noted the unique and vibrant atmosphere of baseball in Asia, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to play overseas.