The biggest value of Kim Ha-sung (29) of the San Diego Padres is his defensive ability no matter what anyone says. This is why he was able to survive in the big leagues despite his poor batting performance, and it seemed as if the free agent jackpot was approaching.
However, the unexpected injury suffered a fatal blow. With the injury being prolonged than expected, it is now unclear whether he will be able to declare himself as an FA after the end of the season.
Kevin A.C. of the San Diego Union-Tribune said on his social network service (SNS) on the 28th (Korea time), “Kim Ha-sung may have to operate on his shoulder joint and spine this offseason.”
Until he was replaced by shoulder pain against the Colorado Rockies on the 19th of last month, he did not expect such a serious injury.
Initially, it was expected to return after a 10-day break, but five weeks have passed and the view of his return is gradually turning negative.
San Diego manager Mike Shildt said, “Kim Ha-sung couldn’t overcome the difficulties in throwing. There is no problem with the batting, but he hasn’t been able to make consistent throws,” adding, “I’m still watching what the situation is like, but I don’t think he will be in a reliable position in the near future. Of course, there is a scheduled date for his return and the possibility of his return is open to him.”
Still, Kim Ha-sung is highly valued. He posted a batting average of 0.233 (94 hits in 403 times at bat) in 121 games this season, including 11 homers, 47 RBIs, 60 runs scored, 58 walks, 77 strikeouts, 22 steals (five failed) with 0.330 on-base percentage, 0.370 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) and 0.700 on-base plus slugging percentage (on-base plus slugging percentage), which are somewhat disappointing compared to last year, but market watchers say he will likely become a big hit in the FA market.
Even though Kim Ha-sung is out due to injury, the U.S. media Bleacher Report ranked Kim Ha-sung 12th by ranking FA players after this season on the 21st. “Kim Ha-sung’s number is not noticeable. However, he is one of the most valuable all-round players in the market, showing excellent defense in various infield positions and combining power and speed,” Bleacher Report said. “Kim Ha-sung recorded 38 steals in 152 games last year, 5.8 in WAR (contributing to victory over substitute players), and marked WAR 15.3 by signing a four-year, $28 million contract with San Diego. He may refuse his 2025 mutual option of $10 million.”
The problem is injury. Autumn baseball can be a showcase stage that can increase the value of Kim Ha-sung, but if his injury is prolonged or he is even on the operating table, the situation could get out of hand.
MLB Trade Rumors (MLBTR), another media outlet that broke the news, said, “If we treat shoulder joints and pure treatment in the offseason, it will be a fatal blow to Kim Ha-sung ahead of the FA,” adding, “The four-year guarantee contract signed with San Diego is almost ending. He will reject the $8 million (about 10.5 billion won) mutual option next year, and will come to the FA market after receiving a $2 million (about 2.6 billion won) buyout.”
“Kim Ha-sung, who has above-average defense everywhere in the field, is very valuable. He stole 38 bases last season and made 22 of his 27 stolen base attempts this year as well. He does not have overwhelming power, but he hit double-digit homers for the third consecutive year. While he walks a lot, he rarely strikes out.” “Ironically, durability was one of his biggest strengths. This is the first time he has been on the injured list for four years in the MLB.” 먹튀검증
So far, we have to wait and see. The San Diego Padres will play the NL wild card game from March 2. With throws still difficult, it will be difficult to play in the wild card game right away. If San Diego advances to the Division Series and beats the Los Angeles Dodgers to the Championship Series and further the World Series, there is still a possibility that Kim Ha-sung will return.
“It will take at least a few more weeks to find out the impact of injuries on Kim Ha-sung’s FA stock price,” MLBTR said. “The more urgent San Diego focus is on the fall baseball infield. (After Kim Ha-sung’s injury) Xander Bogaerts was returned to shortstop, and Jake Cronenworth was transferred to second base. Donovan Solano’s play time at first baseman has increased, and Luis Arraez, designated hitter, has also stepped up as a defense. Last weekend, we called in Nick Ahmed and used him as a backup for Bogaerts.”
It is the butterfly effect caused by Kim Ha-sung’s injury. The best thing is for Kim Ha-sung to return as soon as possible and the defense will normalize. This is expected to have a great impact on Kim Ha-sung’s FA ransom.
