The New York Yankees are looking to strengthen their infield, and one MLB insider thinks they’ll address it by bringing in a seasoned veteran. Former MLB catcher and current analyst A.J. Pierzynski has predicted that the Yankees will sign Ha-Seong Kim to take over at second base.
“I’ve got Kim going to the New York Yankees,” Pierzynski said on Foul Territory. “They need a second baseman, he’s a right-handed bat, he can run, steal bases, and plays solid defense. He’s the perfect fit for them at second base.”
Kim has just completed his four-year, $28 million contract with the San Diego Padres and could step in as a replacement for Gleyber Torres, who signed with the Detroit Tigers.
As Pierzynski mentioned, Kim excels defensively and would provide a significant upgrade at second. Offensively, he was steady at the bottom of the Padres’ lineup last season, hitting .233 with 11 home runs and 47 RBIs.
However, a major concern with Kim is a significant shoulder injury. He underwent season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder, which could cause him to miss time at the start of the 2025 MLB season.
Kim became a free agent after opting out of his $8 million mutual option with the Padres. Spotrac estimates he could land a contract worth around $49 million over four years.
Kim also won the Gold Glove Award at shortstop in 2023 with the Padres.
