Kia Tigers Overhaul Roster for 2026: Re-signs Ace Adam Oller, Adds MLB Vet Harold Castro and Aussie Jarryd Dale

From Korean Series champions in 2024 to missing the playoffs entirely in 2025, the Kia Tigers are making a statement. The club announced on December 24 that it has finalized its foreign player roster for the 2026 season, re-signing ace pitcher Adam Oller and acquiring two new versatile hitters, Harold Castro and Jarryd Dale.

The Ace Returns and a New Bat Arrives

Right-hander Adam Oller is back with the Tigers on a new one-year deal worth up to US$1.2 million. Oller was a bright spot in a difficult 2025 campaign, leading the team with 11 wins and 169 strikeouts over 149 innings as the only Tigers pitcher to reach double-digit wins. His return, alongside fellow starter James Naile who was re-signed in November, provides crucial stability to the rotation.

Replacing Patrick Wisdom is former major leaguer Harold Castro, who signed for the maximum $1 million allowed for first-year foreign players. The 32-year-old Venezuelan brings 450 games of MLB experience and showed impressive power in Triple-A this year, hitting .307 with 21 homers in 99 games. The Tigers described him as a "good contact hitter with some gap power" who can handle multiple positions.

Embracing the KBO's Asian Quota Era

The Tigers also utilized the KBO's new Asian Quota system, which begins in 2026, to sign Australian infielder Jarryd Dale for $150,000. The 25-year-old spent the 2025 season in Japan with the Orix Buffaloes' minor league team, batting .297. Known for his defensive excellence and ability to play every position except catcher, Dale is expected to bring stability to the Tigers' infield. He becomes the second Australian player in the league, joining LG Twins pitcher Lachlan Wells.