The San Diego Padres have added another big name this offseason, by agreeing a deal with Korean star Ha-seong Kim, according to ESPN and several reports.
Kim, 25, became one of the best boxing players on the market when he was sent earlier this month by Kiwoom Heroes, his team in the Korea Baseball Organization.
Several media outlets reported early Monday that Kim was traveling to the United States before the Jan. 1 deadline for MLB teams to sign KBO registered players. San Diego already hit the headlines Sunday night by acquiring left-hand star Blake Snell in a successful exchange with the Tampa Bay Rays.
The versatile Kim played primarily as a shortstop and third baseman in the KBO, and it’s unclear where he would play with the Parents, who already have superstars Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado as shortstop and third baseman, respectively.
Right hitter Kim hit .306 with 30 homers, 109 RBIs, 111 RBIs and 23 steals bases last season with Kiwoom.