Bae Ji-hwan designated for assignment by Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers have placed Bae Ji-hwan on the designated for assignment list, following a brief four-game stint in the majors. The decision comes after the Brewers acquired Jonathan Ornelas from the Athletics in exchange for cash. Once designated, a player can be traded or placed on waivers within seven days. If the player clears waivers, meaning no team claims them, they may be sent to the minors or released, becoming a free agent.

Bae started the season with the Syracuse Mets, the Mets' Triple-A affiliate, but was released on August 5. The Brewers signed him and promptly placed him on their active roster last Sunday. His debut featured a bunt single but limited him to just one more at-bat over the following three games. Bae signed with the Atlanta Braves in 2017, though that deal was voided due to signing violations.

He later joined the Pittsburgh Pirates and made his MLB debut with them in 2022. In 2023, Bae played in 111 games, but was only on the field for 42 games combined over the subsequent two seasons. At 27 years old, Bae brings speed and defensive versatility to the table, having played second base, shortstop, and multiple outfield positions in both the majors and minors.