Infielder Ha-Seong Kim agrees to two-year, $29 million deal to join Tampa Bay Rays

Infielder Ha-Seong Kim is reportedly heading to the Tampa Bay Rays. Kim and the Rays have agreed to a two-year, $29 million contract, per multiple reports. The deal reportedly includes an opt-out after the first season.

Kim has spent the past four seasons with the San Diego Padres, who signed him out of the South Korean league. Kim was one of the top free agents this offseason, with his skill as a versatile infielder among his main strengths. In 2024, the infielder had a .233 batting average, with 11 home runs and 22 stolen bases.

Kim missed the Padres’ postseason run after undergoing shoulder surgery in September. He is still recovering from surgery, but is reportedly expected to be ready to play in May.

In November, Kim declined a mutual option on his contract, opening him up to free agency.

Kim will reportedly play shortstop with the Rays. The 29-year-old infielder played shortstop with the Padres last season, but has played second base and third base throughout his time in San Diego. In 2023, Kim played 102 games at second base, before switching positions last year.