The Tampa Bay Rays have reached an agreement with free-agent infielder Ha-Seong Kim on a two-year deal worth $29 million, according to ESPN. The contract includes an opt-out clause after the first year, which is significant as Kim is recovering from shoulder surgery in late 2024.
Kim, entering his age-29 season, is coming off a 2024 season where he posted a .233/.330/.370 slash line (96 OPS+) with 11 home runs and 22 stolen bases in 121 games for the San Diego Padres. CBS Sports recently ranked Kim as the 14th best free agent of the 2024-25 offseason. Here’s an excerpt from their analysis:
Talented defensive shortstops with consistent offensive production are always in demand. Kim fits the bill with his stellar defense and improvements as a basestealer. Although his shoulder surgery may impact his performance next season, Kim remains a valuable asset on the field.
In his four seasons with the Padres, Kim has accumulated a 15.3 WAR, a 103 OPS+, and has shown versatility by playing shortstop, second base, and third base. His best season came in 2023 when he posted an OPS+ of 118 with 17 home runs, 38 stolen bases, and exceptional defense, earning him some MVP consideration.
Once Kim is fully recovered, he is expected to become the Rays’ starting shortstop, displacing Taylor Walls and delaying the debut of top prospect Carson Williams.
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