Doosan, LG sign Lotte free agents

Hong Sung-heon, a 35-year-old designated hitter, yesterday reached a four-year deal with the Doosan Bears, where he began his career in 1999. The deal is worth 3.1 billion won ($2.9 million), including salary and signing bonus.

Hong, who had been with the Lotte Giants since 2009, was the last free agent to sign a contract this offseason. Hong had reportedly demanded a four-year deal and 3.4 billion won in guaranteed money, while the Giants had offered three years and 2.5 billion won.

Hong batted .292 with 15 home runs and 74 RBIs this year. He started his career as a catcher and had a brief error-laden stint in the outfield after joining the Giants. He since has been a full-time DH. He made 400 million won last year.

The Busan-based Giants also lost free agent outfielder Kim Joo-chan to the Kia Tigers. Kim on Sunday signed a four-year deal with 500 million won in annual salary and a 2.6 billion won signing bonus.

Yonhap