Overview

• Ha-Seong Kim signed a two-year, $29 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays, including a $16 million player option for 2026 and up to $2 million in performance bonuses for 2025.
• Kim, a fan favorite during his four seasons with the San Diego Padres, shared an emotional farewell message, thanking the team, fans, and city for their support.
• The 29-year-old infielder is recovering from shoulder surgery and is expected to return to play around May, aiming to reclaim his form as a Gold Glove-caliber shortstop.
• The Rays, temporarily relocated to Steinbrenner Field due to damage at Tropicana Field, anticipate Kim's defensive prowess and energetic style will strengthen their lineup.
• The Padres have reorganized their infield following Kim's departure, moving Xander Bogaerts back to shortstop and Jake Cronenworth to second base.