The New York Yankees begin the new year with a pressing need to strengthen their infield before spring training kicks off next month. While the front office appears to have wrapped up major acquisitions, they may still explore the international market to bolster their lineup.
Korean second baseman Hyeseong Kim is quietly emerging as a noteworthy option in this offseason’s international market. Regarded as one of the top international players available, Kim has caught the attention of the Yankees, who are listed as a leading contender for his services, according to Caleb Moody of Just Baseball.
“Kim exclusively played second base last season for the KBO’s Kiwoom Heroes,” Moody wrote. “He posted a .326/.383/.458 slash line with a 10.9% strikeout rate, an 8.3% walk rate, and a 118 wRC+ over 567 plate appearances. Over the last two seasons, he’s maintained an OPS above .800, a slugging percentage over .440, and in the past four seasons, a batting average above .300 with a wRC+ exceeding 100.”
While the Yankees’ front office might lean toward players with established MLB experience, Moody highlights Kim as a compelling alternative to reshuffling their current infield by moving Jazz Chisholm Jr. again or slotting Oswaldo Cabrera at third base.
At just 26 years old, Kim’s potential to transition his offensive success to MLB remains uncertain, but his upside makes him a player to watch closely. With his 30-day posting window set to close on January 3, his decision is expected soon, and it will be interesting to see where the Yankees stand in the mix.
