KBO star Kim Hye-sung was listed by Nexen Heroes in December as multiple teams were interested in acquiring the South Korean star. The Seattle Mariners were reportedly one of three teams to offer Kim a contract worth $15 million over three years.
This price is significantly lower than previously rumored, but Mariners analysts warn that there are risks to this figure as well. In addition to the Mariners, other teams rumored to be involved in his sweepstakes include the San Diego Padres, Toronto Blue Jays, Anaheim Angels, and Cincinnati Reds.
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On Wednesday’s episode of the “Rock on Mariners” podcast, MLB analyst Colby Putnode cautioned that even this salary was risky, but if the Mariners were able to acquire him, the Mariners would I believe he will be the best second baseman since Robinson.” Kano is probably better. ”
“Assuming today’s reports are correct, I’m relieved that the price will top out in the three-year, $15 million range,” Patnode said (3:20).
“I think that’s a good number for Kim. Even at that number, there’s still a little bit of risk, because you could be throwing $15 million down the drain. But if you’re making $5 million a year, eight It would be much easier to manage than $10 million to $12 million, which are some of the early numbers we’ve heard about Kim. ”
Colby Patenaude doesn’t expect much from Kim Hye-sung, who has recently received interest from the Mariners.
Adding to the conversation, Colby Putnode believes Hyesung Kim’s annual salary could have been closer to $15 million if she had the necessary powers. He is concerned that his bat will have no impact unless he adjusts his walk rate.
“I’m still really worried about the bat,” Patnode added. “I’ve never talked to or read anyone who thinks Kim will just come to Korea and do the same things he does in Korea and become that type of player.
“There’s no real power to speak of, so his hits aren’t going to be super impactful. It’s going to be a lot of singles. He doesn’t walk a ton, which is a concern, because normally he doesn’t walk a ton. You can’t do better in MLB than in the KBO or other foreign leagues — MLB is just so much harder.”
At three years and $15 million, the Mariners may feel it’s worth the risk. But as Kim’s decision approaches, the question remains: Can the 25-year-old translate his success in the KBO into MLB performance? For the Mariners, the answer could determine their offseason strategy.
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