As shortstop Kim Ha-seong (29) prepares to enter the free-agent market, his anticipated value has seen a notable dip due to recent injuries. Despite still ranking as the second-best free-agent shortstop, estimates of his contract have declined significantly from earlier projections, as analysts on 안전 메이저놀이터 sites discuss his future.
On October 25 (KST), The Athletic released its projected contracts and interested teams for the top 45 MLB free agents in 2024. Kim ranked 27th on the list—a stark drop from June, when MLB Trade Rumors placed him at 8th. His lowered standing is likely due to a shoulder injury sustained in August, which required immediate surgery. Though he’s expected back as early as April or May next season, the injury has impacted his market appeal. Pre-injury, Kim’s potential contract was estimated at $100 million, but recent forecasts have dropped to around $63 million over five years.
The Athletic speculated that Kim might pursue a short-term contract, possibly a strategy advised by Scott Boras of Boras Corporation, whom Kim recently hired. Known for securing high-value contracts, Boras may seek a short deal that allows Kim to rebuild his value quickly.
In explaining Kim’s current health, The Athletic detailed that he injured his right shoulder during a slide on August 19. Kim had shifted from second base—where he won a Gold Glove last year—to shortstop under Padres manager Mike Shildt, aiming to bolster the team’s defense. Unfortunately, his performance suffered before the injury, as he hit .233 with 11 home runs and 22 steals, compared to his 17-home-run, 28-steal performance last season.
Kim earned $8 million this season, and The Athletic now predicts a possible one-year, $10 million deal with performance incentives. His versatility, especially in defense, remains valuable, making him a sought-after "super-utility" option. Potential suitors include the Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, LA Dodgers, and Pittsburgh Pirates.
Milwaukee could target Kim as a budget-friendly replacement for Willy Adames if he leaves, while the Dodgers, currently fielding 36-year-old Miguel Rojas at shortstop, may value Kim’s skillset as he reaches his peak.
Dennis Lin, The Athletic’s Padres reporter, indicated San Diego is interested in keeping Kim, though financial constraints remain a concern. Lin noted, “Teams view Kim as a valuable utility option, even post-surgery. San Diego wants to retain him, but price will be a factor—$10 million might make him affordable.”
Since joining MLB, Kim has played 540 games with a .242 batting average, 47 home runs, 78 stolen bases, 200 RBIs, 229 runs, and a .706 OPS. His defense has consistently drawn praise, and he made history as the first Asian infielder to win a Gold Glove last season, highlighting his market appeal. Capable of delivering 20 home runs and 20 steals, Kim’s versatility is seen as a major asset.
Meanwhile, Adames, Kim’s primary free-agent competitor, ranks 11th on The Athletic’s list and is expected to attract high interest from the Dodgers, who pursued him in 2021 after losing Corey Seager. Potential Adames suitors include the Dodgers, Brewers, and Braves, with his projected contract estimated at six years, $150 million.
With free agency nearing, all eyes will be on Kim’s journey, as teams assess his defense and weigh the potential of his short-term recovery against his long-term value.
Komentarze Profil na forum