Ha-Seong Kim, a free agent and the top-ranked middle infielder available, will unfortunately miss the start of the 2025 season due to shoulder surgery he underwent in October, according to MLB.com. Initially, there was hope that Kim would be ready for Opening Day, but it now seems likely that his return will be delayed until late April or May.
The injury occurred on August 18 when Kim injured his shoulder while diving back into first base on a pickoff attempt. Despite trying to rehab the injury to be available for the postseason with the San Diego Padres, Kim eventually underwent surgery to repair his labrum. The surgery was necessary to address the pain and discomfort he experienced, as Kim explained in late September.
The shoulder injury is to Kim’s right shoulder, his throwing shoulder, which is crucial for his defensive contributions on the field. Kim has played multiple positions in his four MLB seasons, including second base, third base, and shortstop. However, the injury could potentially impact his arm strength and accuracy, potentially limiting him to second base in the long term.
Following the conclusion of the World Series, Kim and the Padres declined their $8 million mutual option, making him a free agent. Our ranking placed Kim as the 14th-best free agent of the offseason and the second-best middle infielder after Willy Adames.
Given the uncertainty surrounding Kim’s injury and his potential availability, he may have to consider a short-term contract to prove himself on the field. Teams like the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Atlanta Braves, Chicago Cubs, and the Padres could be interested in adding Kim to their roster.
Despite a challenging rookie season in 2021, Kim has since improved and established himself as a league-average hitter. With a batting line of .250/.336/.385 and notable defensive skills, Kim won the NL’s utility Gold Glove in 2023 and has averaged 4.6 WAR per 162 games.
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