No, it's not DJ LeMahieu. But that doesn't mean this infielder isn't potentially a game-changer.
His name is Ha-Seong Kim and he is being pursued by the Red Sox as a candidate to become their next second baseman.
According to a South Korean publication, Kim has actually agreed to years and money with one of his major league suitors. There is a glitch, however, with the KBO star looking for the a commitment that would prevent the 25-year-old from being sent to the minor leagues.
MLB teams have until Jan. 1 to work out a deal with Kim, who was posted by his former team Kiwoom earlier this month.
— kyle g. (@kyleg182) December 27, 2020
Here's Ha-seong Kim's scouting report from fangraphs. Teams are bidding for a Top 100, MLB-ready prospect. These players are incredibly hard to come by. There is risk, for sure, but it'd be like acquiring another Downs that just obliterated AAA. pic.twitter.com/gq6V5hFEHx
— Red Sox Stats (@redsoxstats) December 28, 2020
One team we do know is firmly in the mix for Kim is Toronto, who has reportedly extended an offer of at least five years to the infielder.
Even though the talent level of the KBO is perceived as somewhere between Triple-A and the majors, it's hard to downplay the dominant season Kim is coming off of. Primarily playing shortstop, he hit .306 with 30 homers while carrying an OPS of .920.
For more on the Red Sox' pursuit of a second baseman, click here.
