Lopez Re-Signs With Kia Tigers
Kia Tigers' Dominican pitcher Aquilino Lopez will return to the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) next season.
The reigning champion Tigers announced Wednesday that both sides had reached a one-year deal worth $375,000 (433 million won) ― a $75,000 signing fee and a $300,000 salary.
Lopez, 34, who is currently in his native Dominican Republic, will join the Gwangju-based team in January when they launch a winter training camp in Guam or Japan.
The right-hander received $300,000 last year.
"I like the atmosphere with the Tigers and Korea,'' he said.
"I appreciate that my teammates and the Tigers hold me in high regard. … I heard that I was nominated for a golden glove. It is an honor.''
Lopez spent parts of five seasons in Major League Baseball with Toronto, Philadelphia, Colorado and Detroit, mostly in middle relief. In 159 appearances, he compiled a record of 6-6 with 15 saves.
In 2009, he was one of the KBO's top hurlers, posting a league-best record of 14-5 with a 3.12 ERA.
In the Korean Series, he won two games, including a shutout in Game 5, and allowed just three runs in 17 2/3 innings to help the Tigers clinch their 10th title, and their first since 1997.