Lessons learned in Korea play well for Adduci, Thames

(Photo: Robin Buckson / Detroit News)— Jim Adduci and Eric Thames have traveled a similar road back to the major leagues.

Thames may have had a bigger pot of gold waiting for him Milwaukee — $16 million. Adduci, who signed a minor-league contact with the Tigers, is playing for the big-league minimum since being purchased from Triple-A Toledo.

But their stories are the same. Thames is 30, Adduci 31. Both were unable to find their niche in the big leagues when they were in their 20s. Both went to Korea and had great success. Both are back in the big leagues with a newfound belief that they belong.

“I do believe that playing there can teach you things that applies to playing here,” Adduci said.…