Ji-Man Choi was born on May 19, 1991, in Incheon, South Korea. He grew up with a passion for baseball and worked tirelessly to hone his skills from a young age.
In 2010, Choi was signed by the Seattle Mariners as an international free agent, marking the beginning of his professional baseball journey. He quickly made a name for himself within the organization and was eventually traded to the Tampa Bay Rays in June 2018.
Choi's hard work and dedication paid off when he made history in Game 2 of the 2020 World Series by becoming the first Korean player to record a hit in the prestigious event. This milestone solidified his place in baseball history and showcased his talent on a global stage.
Before making his mark in the World Series, Choi began his professional career playing for the Rays' rookie affiliate team, the ACL Mariners. His impressive performance earned him the Arizona Fall League MVP award in 2010, setting the stage for his future success in the majors.
Choi made his major league debut against the Chicago Cubs on April 5, 2016, a moment he had dreamed of since childhood. His debut marked the beginning of a promising career filled with memorable moments and achievements.
During the 2020 ALDS, Choi showcased his power at the plate by hitting a two-run home run against Gerrit Cole, one of the top pitchers in the league. This feat solidified Choi's reputation as a formidable hitter and a valuable asset to his team.
Off the field, Choi remains dedicated to his roots in South Korea and values his cultural heritage. He takes pride in representing his country on the international stage and has become a role model for aspiring baseball players in Korea.
Through his hard work, talent, and determination, Ji-Man Choi has cemented his place in baseball history as a trailblazer for Korean players in the major leagues. His achievements serve as a source of inspiration for fans around the world and showcase the power of following one's dreams with unwavering dedication.
Ji-Man Choi's journey from a young boy with a love for baseball to a World Series history-maker is a testament to his perseverance and passion for the game. As he continues to make his mark in the major leagues, Choi's legacy will live on for generations to come.