More realistic than LAD, if you go to Atlanta, Kim Ha-sung, the existing SS upgrade version of next year's All-Star selection match
Dec 19, 2024
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With Mookie Betts already set to watch shortstop, the infield will be saturated if Kim Ha-sung, the main shortstop, is brought in. Except for built-in first baseman Freddie Freeman and third baseman Max Muncy, the Dodgers are no short of infield agents Gavin Lux, Miguel Rojas, Chris Taylor and, in some cases, Tommy Edman, who recently signed a five-year contract. In other words, if Kim Ha-sung is brought in, he has no choice but to use it as a utility.
Of course, it is true that Kim Ha-sung won the Gold Glove in the utility category in 2023 and is eligible. However, it means that the Dodgers use Kim Ha-sung here and there whenever there are empty spots on the second, third and shortstop, which is not a good use for Kim Ha-sung either.
Crucially, the Dodgers are unlikely to give Kim Ha-sung good treatment. BR also 'President Andrew Friedman and manager Dave Roberts like fielders who can see multiple positions. This is especially true when the market price of such a beast has fallen.'
In reality, it is the Atlanta Braves where Kim Ha-sung can increase the value of his use as the main shortstop.
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Atlanta wants Kim Ha-sung because the existing shortstop Orlando Arcia is second in defense and the bat is too weak. He played in 157 games this season and recorded a batting average of 0.218 (120 hits in 551 at-bats), 17 homers, 46 RBIs, 50 runs scored, and an OPS of 0.625. Last year, he had a career high with a batting average of 0.264 (129 hits in 488 at-bats), 17 homers, 65 RBIs and an OPS of 0.741. In other words, it has experienced a sharp decline this year. However, it does not mean that there is anything to appeal in mobility and defense.
In other words, Arcia means Atlanta is a shortstop who is difficult to be with in the long run in the offense and defense.
It wasn't just BR. Atlanta fan media outlet HTHB also reported 'Spider Kim Ha-sung will receive a huge number of offers ahead of the 2025 season. It is certain that the Braves will be included in those teams. Kim Ha-sung is a very good team. Orlando Arcia was disappointed this year.
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Reporter Tim Kelly, who wrote the article, 'Orando Arcia was selected as an All-Star in 2023 and made a strong impression as a shortstop after Dansby Swanson left, but he was very sluggish at bat this year. Since next year's annual salary is only $2 million, it can be used as a trade to return to a utility role or to upgrade infield. Braves will not guarantee him a starting role next year.
Then 'Kim Ha-sung is a more obvious upgraded version than Arcia and is considered a style that can make smart contracts to be pursued by President Alex Anthopoulos. If Kim Ha-sung goes to Atlanta, he will start as an NL All-Star shortstop. Atlanta will give him a qualifying offer next winter, and he may move in search of a multi-year contract that suits his market value, he affirmed.
Above all, it is attractive that Kim Ha-sung can guarantee the shortstop he wants.
jhno@sportschosun.com
