According to local media, Kim Ha-sung (28, San Diego Padres), who will become a free agent after this season, is among the top 10 FA players.
MLB Trade Rumors, a media outlet specializing in the movement of MLB players, unveiled the preliminary FA power ranking on the 28th (Korea time). According to the report, Kim Ha-sung ranked eighth in the Major League Baseball (MLB) FA rankings as of June. The media mentioned, “Kim Ha-sung is one of the best defenders in his class.”
“Many indicators explain Kim Ha-sung’s defensive performance. The San Diego Padres give high marks to the defense to the extent that they moved Sandur Bohartz to second base this season and entrusted Kim Ha-sung with shortstop,” he added. Kim Ha-sung is considered the biggest infielder in the FA market after the end of this season. 메이저놀이터
The media said that Kim Ha-sung would have received a higher evaluation if he had shown the productivity of last season at bat, but his batting performance fell short of expectations. In response, he evaluated Kim Ha-sung and said, “He is a decent batter with excellent strike zone recognition and contact ability. He also drew walks as often as he struck out,” but pointed out, “The indicators of batting average of 0.223, on-base percentage of 0.333, and slugging percentage of 0.385 are not impressive.”
This season, Kim Ha-sung is somewhat unlucky as his in-play batting average (BABIP) is only 0.236, far below his career average. In response, the media said, “Kim Ha-sung, who hit 17 home runs last year, is following last year’s record with 10 home runs this year, but his long-shot power is not threatening.”
Media outlets estimated that Kim Ha-sung’s contract period will be five years. “Since his first year in the big league, Kim Ha-sung has recorded a winning contribution (WAR) of around four every year compared to his replacement players. There is not much room for improvement, but he has spent more than average seasons with his ability to make contact, defense, and baserunning.”
Yankees outfielder Juan Soto came first and Baltimore Orioles pitcher Corbin Burns came second. Willy Adames of the Milwaukee Brewers, Alex Bregman of the Houston Astros and Max Pride of Atlanta followed.
