Public opinion wants Kim Ha-seong to stay… Why is SD in a dilemma?

“Please extend my contract forever.” Public opinion wants Kim Ha-seong to stay

San Diego Padres fans do not want Kim Ha-seong (29) to leave. The San Diego team, which had put Kim Ha-seong up for trade and was aware of the situation, has no choice but to fall into a dilemma. 

Dennis Lin, a San Diego reporter for North American sports media The Athletic, posted a survey to fans on the 23rd (hereinafter Korean time) to determine their thoughts on this season's outlook and issues. The survey, which consisted of 19 questions, was diverse, including expectations for this season's performance, the team's weaknesses, thoughts on new manager Mike Schilt, and evaluation of the Juan Soto (New York Yankees) trade. There were also questions about key players, and one of them was about Kim Ha-seong’s future plans. 

About 1,420 fans participated in this survey. The question with the most answers was ‘Negotiate an extension before becoming a free agent,’ which received 41.4% support. The majority of fans did not want Kim Ha-seong to leave. In addition, in response to a question where fans wrote their personal opinions, one fan desperately hoped that Kim Ha-sung would stay, saying, "Please extend Kim Ha-sung's contract forever."

The amount of money San Diego needs to invest to make the fans' wishes come true is enormous. Reporter Dennis Lin said, “Ha-seong Kim was nominated for a Gold Glove as a shortstop or second baseman and recorded fWAR of 8.1 for two years. He turns 29 in October. Among the upcoming free agent shortstops who can play a wide range of roles in the infield, the only notable contender is Willy Adames (28, Milwaukee Brewers). “If San Diego signs an unexpected contract extension with Ha-seong Kim before the season, he will be guaranteed between $130 million and $150 million over seven years, including 2024,” he said, predicting a large contract. 

The majority of fans want Kim Ha-sung to be together for a long time. That's it. However, realistic situations must also be considered. While there are ideal fans, there are also opinions that take into account the current reality in San Diego. 31% of the opinion said, ‘We need to watch Kim Ha-seong’s performance until this year’s trade deadline, which is the last year of his contract, and consider whether to trade him.’ It was an opinion that lay somewhere between ideals and reality. Also, quite a few 21.6% of the opinion said, ‘Let’s trade Kim Ha-seong before the season.’ And 6% of the opinion was that they should let Kim Ha-seong go without a trade or contract extension, saying, 'Let's enjoy the last season of a team-friendly contract and let Kim Ha-seong leave.' 

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