Chicago Cubs Rumors: Two new San Diego Padres on the trade block

Switching focus to Ha-Seong Kim, a middle infielder listed as a SS, 2B, and 3B who recorded eight OOAs in his own right, put on a show defensively in 2022. Kim spent 131 games at shortstop, replacing the injured and suspended Fernando Tatis Jr., another 21 games at 2B, and 23 games at 3B.

Looking at Kim's 4.9 WAR, you see what could be for a player like Grisham if there was any actual offensive production. In 2022, Kim slashed .251/.325/.383 with 11 HRs and 59 RBIs. The power numbers, .132 ISO, is not something you target via trade, but the increased average from 2021 (.202) to 2022 (.251) shows the potential in Kim's bat skills.

Split-wise, Kim slashed .270/.369/.396/124 wRC+ against LHP, while notching a .243/.304/.377/96 wRC+ against righties. More interestingly, his Petco Park line was just .234/.325/.333 compared to his road stats of .268/.324/.430. Moving to one of MLB's more hitter-friendly hitter parks would allow him to hit for a higher overall average.

Kim was always thought to have potential as a hitter, so it's not surprising to see a spike in hitting in 2022. in seven seasons in the KBO, he slashed a career .294/373/.493, and it was his 2020 season put him on the map when he recorded a line of .306/.397/.524 with 30 HRs and 109 RBIs.

Coupling an increased bat, along with stellar defense in the field, actually makes Kim a viable trade candidate for a team that could use an upgrade at 3B like the Chicago Cubs. It only amplifies what the Cubs have focused on in supplying their ground-ball-friendly pitchers with elite defense in the field. Kim still has two years of team control with a vesting option for 2025, so acquiring him now may be the most innovative option if the Cubs have any interest.