Marlins release highest-paid reliever, who wasn't even on their MLB roster

San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller spent much of the 2024 offseason rebuilding the team's bullpen into a powerhouse. Preller had already brought in left-hander Yuki Matsui from Japan's NPB. Intrigue was high when the team unexpectedly reached an agreement with one of the top relievers in South Korea's KBO, too. 

Woo-Suk Go had just completed his seventh season with the LG Twins and was still just 24 years old. Over 368.1 IP in more than 350 appearances with the Twins, he struck out 401 batters while posting a 3.18 ERA and saving 139 games. He led the league in saves over that stretch, including a KBO-high 42 in 2023. 

Go was part of South Korea's squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics and was also on the roster for the 2023 World Baseball Classic, though he didn't pitch in the tournament. There, he had been teammates with then-Padres infielder Ha-seong Kim and his brother-in-law, San Francisco Giants center fielder Jung-hoo Lee. 

The two-year deal with San Diego guaranteed Go at least $4.5M. The Padres also sent the Twins a $900K posting fee. 

Go made just over a dozen appearances for the Padres (10 with Double-A San Antonio, plus a half-dozen in spring training) before he was traded to the Marlins for financial purposes. San Diego was acquiring infielder Luis Arráez and the $10.6M salary he was due in a five-player trade. Miami received Go, first baseman Nathan Martorella, and outfielders Dillon Head and Jakob Marsee. 

Just over a year later, the Marlins are releasing Go. 

The now 26-year-old made 12 appearances this year across four levels in the Marlins' minor league system, posting a 4.11 ERA over 15.1 IP. He struck out 15 hitters, but also walked nine and allowed a lot of hard contact (opponents hit .344 against him). 

For the ever cost-conscious Marlins, Go's $2.25M salary this season marked a high point among relievers. Only Sandy Alcantara, Jesus Sanchez and Cal Quantrill are set to earn a higher salary this year.