Long-time MLB veteran Luke Scott reportedly signs deal to play in Korea

Sep 27, 2013; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Tampa Bay Rays pinch hitter Luke Scott (30) reacts after striking out in the ninth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Toronto defeated Tampa Bay 6-3. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

More and more, it appears that long-time Major Leaguers are grabbing the guaranteed money from other countries instead of battling in the Minor Leagues for roster spots, and that is reportedly the case with former Tampa Bay Rays DH/OF Luke Scott.

Luke scott agrees to terms with SK Wyverns in korea. As @ChrisCotillo reported
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 19, 2013

According to multiple outlets, Scott has agreed to a contract with the SK Wyverns in Korea to continue his long professional baseball career. Official terms are undisclosed to this point, but judging by Scott’s age and declining productivity, I can’t imagine it is particularly lucrative by MLB standards.

The 35-year old has played with Tampa Bay for the past two seasons after spending time in Baltimore and Houston, and while he was once a 2-3 win player, that is no longer the case. In 2013, Scott hit .241/.326/.415 with the Rays, which is more than respectable, but injuries plagued him to the point where he could only amass 291 plate appearances. In addition, his below-average defense at any position (he’s basically a DH at this point) has sapped his value even more, and that inflexibility certainly contributed to his new destination.

Still, Scott has been a quality MLB bat for many years, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see him return next season with a “one more chance” feel with another team. Until then, best of luck.

Home/MLB