KBO clubs to play non-stop for 9 consecutive days for the first time in 2025 schedule.
# Kia Tigers Win Thriller Against LG Twins, Celebrating in Gwangju
In a nail-biting 3-2 victory, the Kia Tigers triumph over the LG Twins at the Gwangju-Kia Champions Field on April 27. [YONHAP]
Behind the Scenes: Foreign Player Policies in the KBO
KBO clubs maintain a unique balance between roster limitation and injury management when it comes to foreign players. Here's a look at the key strategies:
Roster Allocation
Each team is allowed to sign up to three foreign players, generally comprising two pitchers and one position player due to typical team strategies [3].
Short-Term Replacement Rule
Introduced in 2024, this rule allows teams to temporarily replace foreign players anticipated to be out for more than six weeks due to injury. The injured player should be moved to the rehabilitation list, and the replacement would sign a short-term contract. For instance, SSG Landers' Guillermo Heredia and LG Twins' Elieser Hernandez currently follow this rule [1].
Contractual Flexibility
Although no specific salary caps are mentioned, there seems to be a focus on performance retention. Clubs tend to avoid midseason cuts despite early struggles, with players rumored for replacement in April 2025 improving and keeping their spots [1]. This system aims to create competitive equality, maintain roster stability, and address injury setbacks.
References:
[1] Jee-Ho Yoo, "KBO surpasses 2 million spectators in fewest number of games this season," Yahoo! Sports, April 24, 2025.
[2] KBO Dinos to remove aluminum panels from stadium after fan's death, Yonhap News Agency, April 24, 2025.
[3] KBO clubs hold steady on foreign players - for now, The Korea Herald, April 25, 2025.
- The Kia Tigers, with their strategic roster allocation of up to three foreign players, delivered a thrilling victory against the LG Twins in Gwangju-Kia Champions Field.
- During the 2025 season, the KBO league saw over two million spectators in the least number of games, a testament to the exciting sports action provided by teams like the Kia Tigers and LG Twins.
- Despite the unusual circumstances, both the SSG Landers and LG Twins have been able to manage their foreign players effectively, following the Short-Term Replacement Rule when necessary.
- As captions proclaim the triumphs and challenges of KBO baseball, fans eagerly await the next thrilling game featuring their favorite teams and players.
