Overview
- The Cardinals released Madris, which MLB.com posted Monday, so he could pursue a contract in the Korea Baseball Organization.
- Madris hit .277/.389/.519 with 14 home runs in 284 plate appearances for Triple‑A Memphis this season, marking a strong run that did not lead to a promotion.
- Multiple reports say Madris is finalizing a deal with the KBO’s SSG Landers and would likely occupy a foreign‑player spot opened by recent roster moves and an injury to Guillermo Heredia, though the Landers had not announced the signing as of Tuesday.
- Madris’s path to the Cardinals was blocked by the club’s roster makeup—Alec Burleson at first base, a lefty‑heavy outfield group and a focus on younger players—making an overseas contract the more viable option.
- KBO teams may carry only three non‑Asian foreign players on the active roster, and veteran minor‑leaguers often take KBO deals for guaranteed pay and everyday playing time that can revive their value for future opportunities.