Numerous MLB teams have expressed interest in a free agent outfielder Socrates Britoaccordingly Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Heyman's report did not specify which teams might be interested. Brito spent the last three seasons with the Kia Tigers of the KBO.
Brito, now 32, was once a highly regarded prospect in the Diamondbacks system. He was named the organization's Minor League Player of the Year in 2015 and most sources considered him one of the team's top ten prospects for the 2016 season. However, he was never able to translate his minor league success to the majors . In 99 MLB games with the D-Backs and Blue Jays from 2015 to 2019, Brito posted a .176/.216/.309 batting average in 218 appearances. Despite his elite sprint speed and solid outfield defense, he posted -0.6 FanGraphs WAR.
After a tough Triple-A year with the Yankees in 2021, Brito signed with the Kia Tigers and packed his bags for Korea. It turned out to be the right decision. He was named a KBO All-Star in each of his first two seasons with the Tigers. Although he didn't make the All-Star team in 2024, he set new career highs in home runs, runs scored and RBI. He also helped his club win the Korean Series for the 12th time in franchise history and the first time since 2017. All told, Brito slashed .302/.352/.491 with 63 home runs, 40 stolen bases and an .843 OPS over three seasons in the KBO.
Heyman's report doesn't necessarily suggest that Brito is planning (or even trying) to return to the football club. He has had a successful career in Korea so far in terms of individual awards, team achievements and financial rewards. His contract for the 2024 season guaranteed him $800,000 and included $400,000 in additional incentives. If he can secure a similar deal from the Kia Tigers for 2025, one can understand why he wouldn't be interested in returning to North America for anything less than a guaranteed contract. Despite his stellar performance in the KBO, his uninspiring MLB track record could deter potential suitors from offering such a guarantee.
