Who is Cody Ponce and what did he achieve in the KBO?

Cody Ponce is a pitcher who achieved an MVP-winning season in the KBO in 2025, recording a 1.89 ERA and setting strikeout records.

Which MLB team signed Cody Ponce after his KBO success?

The Toronto Blue Jays signed Cody Ponce to a three-year contract.

What records did Cody Ponce set in the KBO?

Cody Ponce set KBO records for most strikeouts in a single game (18) and most strikeouts in a single season (252).

Home / Sports / Ponce's KBO MVP Season Earns Him Jays Deal

Ponce's KBO MVP Season Earns Him Jays Deal

3 Dec

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Summary

Cody Ponce signed a three-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays.
He had a historic MVP season in Korea, going 17-1 with a 1.89 ERA.
Ponce set KBO records for strikeouts in a game and a single season.

Ponce's KBO MVP Season Earns Him Jays Deal

Cody Ponce is set to join the Toronto Blue Jays on a three-year deal, following an exceptional MVP-winning season in the Korean Baseball Organization. Ponce's remarkable 2025 performance with the Hanwha Eagles included a 17-1 record and a 1.89 ERA, accompanied by setting new KBO records for single-game and single-season strikeouts.

Previously a second-round draft pick in MLB, Ponce's major league stint saw mixed results before he ventured to Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball. After three seasons in NPB, he transitioned to Korea where he truly blossomed into an elite pitcher. His stellar play in the KBO earned him the league's MVP award and the prestigious Choi Dong-won Award.

The Blue Jays, who have prioritized strengthening their pitching staff this offseason, add Ponce to a rotation facing potential workload management for other pitchers. Ponce's addition provides crucial depth and a high-caliber arm for Toronto's aspirations.