The Seattle Mariners will have to wait another day to fill at least two infield spots as Hyeseong Kim has signed a three-year, $12.75 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The deal includes a two-year club option for 2028-2029 seasons, taking the total value to $22 million.
Kim, 27, had been a target for the Mariners this offseason, who were looking to upgrade talent and depth at second base, third base, and first base. He had a strong season with the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO last year, posting a .326/.383/.458 slash line.
The Dodgers now have an excess of infielders, which may prompt them to consider trading Gavin Lux for prospects. As the only logical fit left, he could be the Mariners’ solution to fill one of their open spots. With first baseman Carlos Santana taking less money to sign with the Guardians, options are dwindling, leaving the Mariners to reassess their plans.
As a result, the Mariners will have to look elsewhere to address their infield needs, which was their priority this offseason. With limited payroll space and only $15 million available for the 40-man roster, they were confident in signing two infielders but now face an uphill battle to fill all three spots.
Source: https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/mariners/mariners-quiet-offseason-continues-as-korean-infielder-hyeseong-kim-signs-with-dodgers