The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant addition to their roster, signing two-way player Jun-Sang Eom from South Korea. This move comes just five months after the 2026 international signing period began, and it marks another major acquisition for the team. Eom, who was projected to be a top pick in the KBO Draft, has opted to pursue his professional career in the United States, where he will reportedly receive a substantial signing bonus of around $1.5 million.
Eom's talent is evident in his versatility as a two-way player. During the 2025 U18 Baseball World Cup in Japan, he showcased his skills as both a batter and a pitcher. As the starting shortstop for South Korea, he demonstrated exceptional defensive abilities, utilizing his strong arm and precise footwork to excel at the position. Additionally, his pitching prowess was notable, as he earned a save and struck out seven batters over 3 2/3 innings, allowing only two hits and no walks.
Offensively, Eom is described as a 'hit-over-power' type, but his physical attributes and batting skills suggest potential for extra-base hits. Standing at 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, he has already shown the ability to win Korea's 2026 Weekend League batting title, topping players from 102 schools. His power and skill at the plate are expected to translate to the professional level.
On the mound, Eom's fastball has reached 95 mph, and he possesses a reliable slider and a low-80s splitter with late movement. His command and sequencing skills are above average for a teenager, making him a polished pitcher in his age group. Manager Torey Lovullo praised Eom's talent and tools, highlighting his potential to contribute to the team's success.
The Diamondbacks' decision to sign Eom is part of a broader trend in baseball. Clubs across the league have become more open to the idea of two-way players, allowing them to develop skills in multiple areas. This approach has been exemplified by the Athletics' signing of Shotaro Morii, a top NPB Draft pick, and the Rangers' acquisition of Josh Owens and Austin Smith, all of whom are two-way players in the minors.
South Korea has produced a handful of standout players in recent years, and Eom's signing adds to this growing list. The country's high school ranks have become a fertile ground for talent, with players like Chan-Min Park and Seong-Jun Kim already making their mark in Major League Baseball. The Diamondbacks' addition of Eom further strengthens their roster and provides an opportunity for the team to develop a unique and versatile player.
While Eom's path to the big leagues may not be immediate, his signing represents a significant investment in the team's future. With his combination of defensive prowess, offensive potential, and pitching skills, Eom has the makings of a valuable asset for the Diamondbacks. As he continues his development, he could become a key contributor to the team's success and a prominent figure in Major League Baseball.
