I will help you learn about Kim Ha-seong, a player who recently made the move from the KBO to the MLB through the posting system. He has been performing well in the Major League and has gained a lot of fans who admire and love him.
Kim Ha-seong’s career in the KBO league, MLB
Kim Ha-seong’s career
in the KBO
Kim Ha-seong made his debut in the KBO pro league in 2014, when he played as a backup shortstop to Kang Jung-ho for the Nexen Heroes. As a rookie, he did not get much playing time, likely due to Kang’s presence, and only made a few plate appearances, suggesting that he was mainly used as a pinch hitter or substitute.
In 2015, Kang left for the major leagues, and Kim became the starting shortstop at just 20 years old. He came close to hitting 20 home runs and stealing 20 bases, showcasing his ability to hit well. While his defense was somewhat lacking, considering his young age, it was an impressive season overall.
From 2016 to 2018, Kim remained a steady presence as Nexen’s starting shortstop. He continued to hit around 20 home runs and steal 20 bases, earning membership in the 20-20 club. His defense also improved, culminating in a Gold Glove award in 2018. He also won a gold medal in the Asian Games and received an exemption from mandatory military service, making 2018 a particularly memorable year for him.
Starting in 2019, Kim cemented his place as the best right-handed hitter and shortstop in the league. His slash line of batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage was close to .300/.400/.500, respectively. He led the league in runs scored and was second in RBIs and stolen bases, making him one of the best hitters in the league.
In 2020, Kim had a truly remarkable season, solidifying his place as the league’s top shortstop. He became the second shortstop since Kang to hit 30 home runs and record 100 RBIs and 100 runs scored. He also stole 20 bases, making him a member of the 20-20 club again. All of these accomplishments came while playing strong defense at shortstop, adding to his value as a player.
Shortstops are known for being one of the most physically demanding positions in the league, so when a shortstop hits well, it adds even more value to their performance. Kim was a strong candidate for MVP, but ultimately settled for his third consecutive Gold Glove award.
MLB
Kim Ha-seong, who spent seven seasons in the KBO, signed with the San Diego Padres through the posting system in 2021. The contract is guaranteed for four years and worth $28 million, and could reach a maximum of $39 million over five years with an extension. His guaranteed annual salary is $7 million, and if he extends for one more year, his final season salary will be $11 million.
In 2021, Kim Ha-seong’s MLB player evaluation can be summarized as poor hitting, excellent defense, decent base-running skills, and the ability to play multiple positions. In other words, he can be considered a very good defensive shortstop. Therefore, there were moments of both anticipation and worry for his future in 2022, as he faced formidable competition from Fernando Tatis Jr. If his hitting didn’t improve, his position could be in jeopardy.
However, Kim Ha-seong turned the tables in 2022. With a strong defense that was almost worthy of a Gold Glove, and improved hitting statistics, he solidified his position as a regular starter. In San Diego, Kim Ha-seong was able to avoid any significant problems, thanks to Fernando Tatis Jr.’s injury and drug suspension. While there have been many Asian players in the MLB, Kim Ha-seong is one of the few Asian shortstops to establish himself through his outstanding defense.
Now, 2023 MLB season is about to begin. We can look forward to what promises to be an exciting year for Kim Ha-seong. Unfortunately, due to the big contract of Jurickson Profar, he will start at second base, but if he shows his competitiveness in that position, he will become an even more valuable player.