Rays Sign Ha-Seong Kim to $29M Deal Amid Injury Concerns

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Tampa Bay Rays have signed infielder Ha-Seong Kim to a two-year, $29 million contract, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The deal includes an opt-out clause after the first season, with Kim set to earn $13 million in 2025 and up to $16 million in 2026 if he does not opt out.

Kim, represented by the Boras Corporation, is recovering from a right shoulder injury sustained in August 2023 while playing for the San Diego Padres. The injury occurred during a pickoff attempt, leading to labrum surgery in September. His agent, Scott Boras, has projected a potential return to the field by April, though Padres president of baseball operations A.J. Preller suggested a timeline of “May, June, July.”

The signing marks a significant move for the Rays, who are known for their frugal spending. Kim, 28, was a key contributor for the Padres during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, showcasing strong defensive skills and versatility across the infield. However, his uncertain health status has raised questions about the deal’s timing and value.

Kim’s departure is another blow to the Padres, who have seen several key players leave in free agency this offseason. Outfielder Jurickson Profar signed with the Atlanta Braves, citing the Padres’ ongoing ownership lawsuit as a factor in his decision. All-Star reliever Tanner Scott also departed, joining the division-rival Los Angeles Dodgers.

“Obviously the Padres have some issue with the ownership and all that,” Profar said in a video call with Atlanta media. “It was difficult to go back (to San Diego), but [Braves general manager] Alex [Anthopoulos] showed a lot, a lot of interest in me and I loved that.”

For the Rays, the signing addresses a need for infield depth, particularly with top shortstop prospect Carson Williams still developing in the minors. If Kim returns to his pre-injury form, he could provide a significant boost to Tampa Bay’s lineup and defense.

The deal has sparked mixed reactions among fans and analysts, with some praising the Rays for taking a calculated risk and others questioning the wisdom of investing heavily in an injured player. Regardless, Kim’s signing underscores the Rays’ willingness to make bold moves in pursuit of contention.