The Tampa Bay Rays made a notable move as Spring Training approaches, signing former San Diego Padres infielder Ha-Seong Kim to a two-year deal worth $39 million according to the AP. Despite being a former Gold Glove Award winner, Kim had been lingering in free agency for the past few months before this signing.
In the 2024 MLB season, Kim recorded 94 hits with a batting average of .233 and an OPS of .700, marking his lowest performance since his rookie season in 2021. However, his defensive prowess, particularly showcased during his best season in 2023 where he earned a Gold Glove, made him an attractive addition for the Rays. That year, he finished with a .260 average, an OPS of .749, 17 home runs, 23 doubles, 60 RBIs, and 38 stolen bases.
The Rays are hopeful that Kim can recapture his 2023 form to aid their efforts in climbing the American League East Division standings, where they have fallen behind in recent years after previously enjoying a period of success. Despite competing in one of the league’s most challenging divisions, this acquisition should bolster their lineup as they prepare for Spring Training later this month.
