The Houston Astros have officially welcomed a fresh addition to their pitching lineup in the form of right-hander Ryan Weiss, who has recently returned to the Major League Baseball after a successful stint in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO). Known colloquially in South Korea as “Daejeon Jesus” for his impressive pitching skills and distinctive long hair, Weiss secured a significant deal with the Astros on Tuesday.
Though the financial specifics were not initially disclosed, reputable sources indicate that Weiss’s contract guarantees him $2.6 million for the 2026 season, with an option for 2027 that could elevate his total earnings to over $10 million across two years. As verified by multiple reports, including those from Brian McTaggart of MLB.com and ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, the Astros are expected to make roster adjustments to finalize Weiss’s signing amidst a full 40-man roster.
Weiss, approaching his 29th birthday at the start of the 2026 season, has demonstrated exceptional performance during his two-year tenure in the KBO. His recent season statistics include an impressive 16 wins against just 5 losses, a 2.87 ERA, and 1.024 WHIP, all while amassing 207 strikeouts over 178.2 innings during 30 starts with the Hanwha Eagles.
Before his success in Korea, Weiss was a notable prospect, drafted in the fourth round of the 2018 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks. After spending five seasons in the minor leagues, he took his talents overseas, where he also pitched in the Chinese Professional Baseball League prior to his time in the KBO.
The acquisition of Weiss speaks volumes about the Astros’ strategic focus on enhancing their pitching staff with internationally experienced talent. As they gear up for the upcoming season, fans and analysts alike are keen to see how this new chapter unfolds for the promising pitcher in Houston.