MLB Rumors: Top 3 Landing Spots For Ha-Seong Kim

According to Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report, Ha-Seong Kim’s elite defense and positional versatility make him one of the most intriguing free agents this offseason. 

Despite a down year offensively (.233 AVG, .700 OPS) and recovering from shoulder surgery, Kim remains a valuable asset capable of excelling at second base, shortstop, or third base. 

The Los Angeles Dodgers emerge as the most logical fit, especially with Mookie Betts expected to play a middle-infield position. If Tommy Edman shifts to center field or Gavin Lux struggles after returning from injury, Kim’s defensive skillset provides a seamless solution. 

“Kim feels like a perfect Dodger,” Kelly writes, pointing to Andrew Friedman’s preference for versatile players and suggesting a one-year, $14 million "pillow contract" to help Kim rebuild his value while contributing to a perennial contender.

I have seen absolutely nothing recently about either Ha Seong or Hye Seong Kim

— Ben Ranieri (@BenRanieri10) December 17, 2024

The Detroit Tigers also stand out as a strong landing spot, where Kim would provide stability to a young, unproven infield. 

Manager A.J. Hinch could deploy him at shortstop as an upgrade over Javier Báez or use him at second or third base depending on the development of Colt Keith and Jace Jung. 

Kelly notes that Kim’s presence would offer Detroit “a Swiss Army knife for whatever gaps emerge,” making him a reliable veteran presence as the Tigers aim to build on their recent momentum and contend for a playoff spot in 2025.

If the Teoscar offers get crazy the Dodgers could always pivot to Ha Seong Kim and keep Edman in CF. Would be counting on Pages in a starter role or Rushing if Pages struggles but at some point a youngster needs to contribute. Been a bit. Teoscar returning still is most ideal.

— Michael (@Wittman7) December 9, 2024

Rounding out the top three, the Seattle Mariners present an ideal fit for Kim as they look to improve both their offense and infield consistency. 

While J.P. Crawford remains the everyday shortstop, Kim would likely take over at second base, where his steady defense and ability to get on base would address Seattle’s offensive struggles. His contact-oriented approach makes him well-suited for T-Mobile Park’s pitcher-friendly dimensions. 

Mariners president Jerry Dipoto “would be wise to sign Kim and then focus on adding a slugger via trade,” Kelly suggests, providing Seattle with a balanced lineup to fuel their playoff aspirations.

Photo Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images