Ha-Seong Kim, the beloved shortstop for the San Diego Padres, had an impressive 2023 season despite the team’s overall disappointment. With free agency on the horizon in 2024, Kim has caught the attention of other teams in trade talks, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
During his time with the Padres, Kim showcased his skills with a .260 batting average, .351 on-base percentage, and .398 slugging percentage. He also hit 17 home runs, drove in 60 runs, and accumulated a 4.4 fWAR, making it his best season in the MLB so far. Notably, Kim’s exceptional defensive abilities earned him his first Gold Glove, a historic achievement as the first Asian-born infielder to receive the prestigious award.
Despite the team’s budget constraints, the San Diego Padres are actively engaged in trade discussions and have room to make additional acquisitions, according to GM A.J. Preller. One player drawing significant interest is none other than Ha-Seong Kim, who will become a free agent at the end of the season.
PADRES PRESIDENT: KIM WON’T BE TRADED LIGHTLY
Despite interest from other teams, Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller is not willing to trade Kim away easily. Preller suggests that the team will likely keep Kim into the 2024 season.
“We value him a ton,” Preller said. “He was arguably as important as any player for us on the field last year; he played great. … I think we’re excited to have him here. And I think he understands the value he brings to us and what we think about him, and I think he’s ready to have a big year, honestly.”
PADRES TAKE CONSERVATIVE APPROACH TO PAYROLL
After multiple seasons of excessive spending in an unsuccessful attempt to win the World Series, the Padres have adopted a more conservative approach to payroll this winter. In December 2023, the Padres received a $39.7 million luxury tax bill for their $255 million payroll last season. Considering the lack of success it brought them, they are unlikely to return to such extravagant spending anytime soon.
KIM’S IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE AND CONTRACT SITUATION
Kim is owed a salary of just $8 million this year. Given his impressive performance over the last two seasons, he is likely to turn down his contract’s $10 million mutual option for 2025. A contract extension for Kim could cost the Padres upwards of $100 million, which may pose difficulties for the team given their new frugal spending plan and other roster needs.
INTEREST FROM OTHER TEAMS
Kim’s career is on an upward trajectory, and with his bargain $8 million salary in 2024, it’s no surprise that many teams are interested in acquiring the 28-year-old. One potential fit for Kim is the Toronto Blue Jays, who are in need of an upgrade in their infield. The St. Louis Cardinals are also a team that could be a good match, with a range of outfielders and relievers that could be included in a trade package.
TRADE UNLIKELY BEFORE OPENING DAY
While Preller has implied that a trade is unlikely to happen before Opening Day, the Padres are expected to seriously consider a move at the deadline. They risk Kim walking away at the end of 2024 with nothing in return. For now, Kim is focused on getting in shape for the season and putting his best foot forward.
Rachael Millanta covers Major League Baseball.
According to the Source heavy.com