Ex-KBO slugger Romak says feels sense of 'closure' in return to S. Korea

Jamie Romak, a former All-Star slugger for the SSG Landers, returned to South Korea this week to celebrate his career closure. The Canadian, who played for the Incheon-based Landers from 2017 to 2021, felt a bit rushed when he retired in 2021, but the trip back has given him a chance to properly wrap up his baseball career. Romak was invited to the Landers' home stadium, Incheon SSG Landers Field, for a pregame ceremony where he signed autographs for fans and threw the ceremonial first pitch.

The ceremony provided him with a sense of closure and made him feel that things are moving at a slower pace. During his time in South Korea, Romak immersed himself in Korean culture, dining on Korean cuisine, and even taking a Korean etiquette class. He also spent time recovering with his former teammates and staff. Romak said he is proud that his No. 27 has been worn by every foreign hitter for the Landers since his retirement, including current player Guillermo Heredia, who wore it since 2023.

Romak, who now coaches teenage prospects in Canada, said he did not miss playing baseball but misses the environment of being around the players. He explained that he gets that same experience now through coaching.