Choi explodes for multiple hits in Triple-A rehab game…SD Korean big leaguer duo reunite as early as weekend

On the disabled list (IL), 32-year-old San Diego Padres pitcher Ji-Man Choi shook off some rust in a rehab game as he takes the final step toward returning to the major leagues.

Choi appeared for the El Paso Chihuahuas (San Diego) against the Triple-A Round Rock Express (Texas Rangers) on June 6 at Southwest University Park in El Paso, Texas. Batting third and designated hitter, Choi went 2-for-3 with a double, a walk and three strikeouts.

In his first at-bat in the first inning, Choi hit a 110-mile-per-hour (177 kilometers per hour) bullet of a pitch, but was left stranded at second base.

In the bottom of the third inning, Choi was faced with a 1-2 count, but after a foul cut, he picked off two pitches to work a full count. He then took advantage of a seven-pitch curveball and hit a big one for a two-run double, but was unable to capitalize as he was unable to get a follow-up hit.

Choi, who reached base on a walk in the bottom of the fourth inning, added a single to left field in the bottom of the fifth inning to complete his multi-hit game. He was replaced by a pinch-hitter in the bottom of the eighth inning to end the game.

Choi, who arrived in San Diego via trade on Aug. 2, struggled in his first seven games, going 0-for-11 at the plate. To make matters worse, Choi was placed on the 10-day disabled list on August 15 with a left rib strain and has been taking batting practice since late last month.메이저사이트

Choi’s multi-hit performance in his first game raised expectations for a reunion with San Diego’s Korean big leaguer Kim Ha-seong. “If Choi’s recovery process goes smoothly, he could return to the major leagues as soon as this weekend,” said CBS Sports.