Cody Ponce could be the latest pitcher to return to MLB after reinventing himself overseas, and he's reportedly drawing a lot of interest on the free-agent market.

Ponce, who played two seasons for the Pirates from 2020-21, has been pitching in Japan and Korea for the past four seasons. After an excellent 2025 season in the KBO League, the 31-year-old right-hander is expected to return to the Major Leagues in 2026 -- and he could command a healthy contract.

Signings & Trades

According to a report from The Athletic on Monday (subscription required), Ponce could land a deal in the three-year range that's worth at least $30 million, if not $40-plus million.

Ponce went 17-1 with a 1.89 ERA and 252 strikeouts in 180 2/3 innings (12.6 K/9) for the Hanwha Eagles last season. Ponce's 252 K'

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