*This content was translated by AI.
As NC Dinos races toward a miraculous autumn playoff berth, they have secured another foreign pitcher and even set his debut date. Assuming normal visa processing procedures are completed, he will make an unexpected start in the game against LG Twins at home on the 16th.
On the 12th, NC officially announced: "We have signed right-handed pitcher Mike Clevinger (34) as Curtis Taylor's six-week replacement foreign pitcher. The contract size is $75,000 (approximately 100.8 million won)."
Clevinger was born on December 21, 1990, and stands 193 cm tall with a weight of 97 kg. He began his professional career after being drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in 2011.
He played for nine seasons in Major League Baseball with the Cleveland Guardians, San Diego Padres, and Chicago White Sox. Appearing in 164 games (142 starts), he recorded 60 wins, 44 losses, 809⅔ innings, 822 strikeouts, and an ERA of 3.55 — a pitcher with a strong reputation.
NC manager Lee Ho-jun, speaking ahead of the game against Doosan Bears at Jamsil Stadium on the 12th, said about Clevinger: "Originally, Ryley was scheduled to start this coming Wednesday (the 16th; his last outing was on the 10th against KIA Tigers). However, he requested a one-day delay, leaving that day's starter spot open. Therefore, we plan to use Clevinger for that game. We have already informed Clevinger of this arrangement."
He continued: "He also said he was fine. He plans to do a light bullpen session on the 14th, rest on the 15th, and then make his appearance on the 16th."
Expecting a high pitch count may be difficult. Manager Lee noted: "According to him, he can throw around 80 pitches. He mentioned that before coming to Korea, he intentionally did a bullpen session once," while highly praising Clevinger's passion.
When reporters remarked that the team had signed a pitcher with considerable reputation, Lee smiled and said, "I was the only one who didn't know." He added: "I'm not good at remembering American players' names, but I do have some memory of him. I think I saw him when Kim Ha-seong played for San Diego. Our pitching coach and coaching staff went 'wow' upon hearing about Clevinger's signing. I even asked them, 'Is he really that famous?'"
NC explained about Clevinger: "He throws a fastball averaging 152 km/h (in the 2026 season), along with a changeup, cutter, and sweeper. He has appeared in 164 games over nine seasons in Major League Baseball, including 142 starts, giving him extensive starting experience."
Through the club, Clevinger stated: "I am excited to join NC Dinos and play alongside new teammates. As the team is entering a crucial period near the end of the season, I will do my best to contribute to our playoff qualification. I hope to adapt quickly and show good performance in games."
NC reported that Clevinger arrived in Korea via Incheon International Airport this evening (the 13th) and is scheduled to join the team on the 15th.
This is NC's strategic move toward securing a top-five finish. How will Clevinger perform?
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*This content was translated by AI.
