The defending champion LG Twins are taking the first step in their dynasty-building efforts. First, the team is expected to sign Dietrich Enns, a former Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) left-hander, to replace Adam Plutko.

According to a report by MK Sports, LG is in the final stages of negotiations with Dietrich Enns to replace Plutko, whose contract was not renewed. "Dietrich Enns is one of the candidates," an LG official said.

LG won its first title in 29 years in 2023. The team, as well as coach Hyeon Kyung-yeop, are now looking to build a dynasty beyond the championship.

Strengthening the roster for the 2024 season is also important. The most important foreign players have been outlined. First, LG officially announced the re-signing of foreign hitter Austin Dean on November 17. The deal is worth a total of $1.3 million ($300,000 signing bonus, $800,000 salary, $200,000 incentive).

Coming into this season, Austin swung the bat in 139 games in pinstripes, batting .313 with 23 home runs and 95 RBIs. His 15 walk-off hits were the most in the league. Austin was also a key contributor in the Korean Series, batting .350 with one home run and five RBIs in five games.

"I want to thank the organization for giving me the opportunity to come back," Austin said. "The LG fans were the best support I've ever experienced this season," Austin said. "I'm looking forward to playing in front of them again next year. See you all next year."

LG President Cha Myung-seok said, "Austin is a player who has clearly demonstrated his role in helping LG win the 2023 season, and he is exactly what we need in our team. With his experience and adaptation to the KBO, we expect him to continue to perform well next year." 먹튀검증

Casey "Jamsil Jesus" Kelly is also expected to be re-signed. During the Korean Series, Yeom mentioned the possibility of re-signing Kelly. Barring any major issues, Kelly is expected to continue with LG for a sixth year in 2024. "We are in positive talks with Kelly about his contract," an LG representative said.

A replacement for Plutko, who returned to the United States at the end of the season due to injury issues, has also been outlined. MK Sports has spoken to Dietrich Enns, who has played in the NBP for the past two years.

The 1991-born left-hander began his professional career as a 19th round, 607th overall pick of the New York Yankees in 2012. He didn't make his major league debut until 2017, appearing in two games. In 2021, he appeared in nine major league games (22.1 innings) for the Tampa Bay Rays, going 2-2 with a 2.82 ERA, 25 strikeouts, and six walks. In 185 career minor league games, Enns has a 55-40 record, nine wins, three losses, three saves, a 3.32 ERA, 707 strikeouts, 267 walks, and a 1.24 WHIP.

Dietrich Enns was released by Tampa Bay after the 2021 season and spent the 2022 season in Asian baseball. For the Seibu Lions, Enns went 10-7 with a 2.94 ERA, 92 strikeouts, and 45 walks in 23 games in 2022. In 2023, he struggled in 12 games, going 1-10 with a 5.17 ERA, 30 strikeouts, and 23 walks.

It will be interesting to see if LG can build a one-two punch with Dietrich and Casey Kelly and challenge for a dynasty in 2024.