San Diego Padres’ starting shortstop, Kim Ha Seong, is expected to be ranked fifth among infielders in the free agent (FA) market after the 2024 MLB season, according to a column by former MLB commissioner Jim Bowden, published on The Athletic on the 18th (Korean time).
Kim’s batting average was 0.260, his on-base percentage was 0.351, and his slugging percentage was 0.398 last season. He also scored 17 home runs and 38 stolen bases. His primary position was second base and was mentioned as a potential Gold Glove (Utility Division) winner. These statistics demonstrate that Kim is recognized as a player with excellent defensive skills.
Bowden predicted that while Kim could earn $7 million (with an additional $1 million signing bonus) if he extends his contract for another year, he will likely enter the FA market. This suggests that Kim may be seeking an opportunity to receive a higher valuation.
The top-ranked FA infielder is Pete Alonso, first baseman of the New York Mets, followed by Alex Bregman, third baseman of the Houston Astros, Gleyber Torres, starting second baseman of the New York Yankees, and Christian Walker, first baseman of the Arizona Diamondbacks. All of these players are powerful hitters. Paul Goldschmidt of the St. Louis Cardinals and Matt Chapman of the San Francisco Giants received lower evaluations than Kim.
Bowden also announced notable FA rankings in the pitching division, ranking Roki Sasaki, a fast-ball pitcher from Chiba Lotte Marines of the Japanese professional baseball league, third in the division. He expressed his expectations for Sasaki’s future.
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