Rumors of a trade for Ha-seong Kim (28, San Diego), who was recognized as a major league shortstop, are constantly coming out every day. In particular, the movement of the Boston side, which lost all candidates for the main shortstop, is unusual. However, it is not easy to decide on the trade of Kim Ha-sung in San Diego.
On the 13th (Korean time), the American media The Athletic talked about the progress of each team in the offseason and future plans with reporters in charge of the 5 teams in the National League West.
Among them, Dennis Lin, who is in charge of San Diego, cited the signing of large shortstop Xander Bogarts (31) as the most important action this offseason. San Diego signed an 11-year, $280 million (approximately 350 billion won) free agent contract with Bogarts last month.
“San Diego already has two shortstops (Ha-Sung Kim and Fernando Tatis Jr.), and one of them (Tatis Jr.) has a contract through 2034. Acquiring Bogaerts raises all kinds of questions,” Lin explained. .
The hottest San Diego-related issue, the Kim Ha-seong trade, also originated from the recruitment of Bogarts. Last year, Kim Ha-seong, who proved his defense by achieving above-average batting productivity in the major leagues and being one of the three finalists for the Gold Glove in the National League shortstop category, is evaluated as a player worthy of being entrusted with starting anywhere.
However, San Diego is unlikely to give up Kim Ha-seong easily. It is because of the team situation that cannot be predicted even after this year. “The addition of Bogaerts is all but thought-provoking,” Lynn said. “What does this acquisition say about San Diego’s faith in Tatis Jr.? Some insurance against the possibility of Juan Soto or Manny Machado leaving as free agents.” “Which position will Bogarts play in 2024, the third best defense in San Diego? His position has nothing promised except for this season.”
Of these, the biggest concern is the possibility of free agency using Machado’s opt-out right after this season. Machado signed a 10-year, $300 million (approximately 372 billion won) contract with San Diego in 2019, and after the 2023 season, he can go out as a free agent with just one opt-out. As the ransom of first-class infielders has skyrocketed recently, the possibility of a super-large contract for Machado, who finished second in the National League MVP last year, is being predicted. If Machado goes free agency, it is likely that Bogatz will move to third base and Kim Ha-seong will return to shortstop. 카지노사이트
The skepticism about Tatis Jr., which was detected inside Bogatz’s San Diego, is also the reason why Kim Ha-seong is not easily let go. Tatis Jr. signed a 14-year, $340 million (approximately 421.6 billion won) contract extension in November of last year, but his work ethic (work ethic) is being questioned due to shoulder surgery and taking prohibited drugs due to motorcycle driving. In addition, as the shoulder injury is repeated, the voice of concern is also increasing.
Since his symbolism as a franchise star has already faded, the possibility that San Diego will trade Tatis Jr. cannot be ruled out. If that happens, Ha-seong Kim, who has the most stability due to the nature of shortstops where defense is important, will inevitably increase his presence in the team. However, Lin judged the result to be a positive one, even considering the complicated questions raised by Bogarts.
“Of course, it could be a good season for everyone involved in signing Bogatz. Soto, Machado, Bogatz, and Tatis Jr. form the best offensive quartet in sight,” Lin said, hoping for a hit.