The Boston Red Sox face three key challenges this offseason: securing a right-handed hitter, filling the second baseman position, and adding a backend reliever. Signing Ha-Seong Kim could help address two of these issues, at least for the short-term, allowing the team to focus on long-term solutions in the future offseason. Last season, Kim posted a .233/.330/.370/.700 slash line, along with 16 doubles and 11 home runs. More notably, he boasts a career .270 batting average and an .788 OPS against left-handed pitchers, which makes him an appealing option for the Red Sox’s need for a righty hitter. In addition to his offensive contributions, Kim excels defensively, winning the 2023 Gold Glove award as a versatile utility player who played second base, shortstop, and third base.
For the Red Sox, this move could provide a solution to their second base dilemma, at least temporarily. Kim’s defensive prowess would stabilize the infield, and his right-handed bat adds balance to the lineup. If he exceeds expectations, the team could opt to extend his contract, but if his performance falls short, the Red Sox have promising young prospects in Vaughn Grissom and Kristian Campbell, who could be given an opportunity to fill the role in the future.
While the ultimate goal is to secure a superstar for the long run, signing Kim would still be a solid move for the Red Sox, addressing two critical needs and potentially positioning them for further success. If this move materializes, it could mark another positive step in the team’s offseason strategy.
