The Cincinnati Reds have historically struggled with signing international free agents from Asia, with their deal for Shogo Akiyama falling short of expectations. While the organization is optimistic about 19-year-old two-way prospect Sheng-En Lin, many uncertainties surround his development.
However, the Reds might have an opportunity to turn their luck around. Rumors are linking them to Hyeseong Kim, a standout infielder for the Kiwoom Heroes in the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO). Kim, who was posted for MLB teams last month, faces a Friday deadline to decide on his potential move to the majors.
While transitioning from the KBO to MLB often presents challenges, especially at the plate, Kim’s defensive prowess has been his standout asset. If the Reds manage to secure Kim this offseason, it raises an intriguing question: how would his addition impact the team’s current infield configuration?
Hyeseong Kim’s versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him a strong candidate for a utility infielder role. However, if the Reds envision Kim as an everyday player, manager Terry Francona might consider reshuffling the infield to optimize the lineup for 2025.
Signing Hyeseong Kim could challenge Reds’ bullish stance on Elly De La Cruz
Nick Krall, Cincinnati’s president of baseball operations, has affirmed Elly De La Cruz’s role as the starting shortstop next season. While De La Cruz’s athleticism and ability to make extraordinary plays are undeniable, he also led the league in errors last season. With Noelvi Marte struggling and Matt McLain set to return, the Reds might benefit from moving De La Cruz to third base.
Currently, the Reds face uncertainty at the hot corner. Marte has not regained his form since a PED suspension, and last year’s free-agent signing, Jeimer Candelario, is better suited to first base. Santiago Espinal, while possessing an above-average glove, posted a disappointing -4 defensive runs saved at third base last year.
If Kim joins the Reds, shifting De La Cruz to third base could create Cincinnati’s best defensive infield alignment. This setup might feature De La Cruz at third, McLain at shortstop, Kim at second, and a rotation of Candelario and Christian Encarnacion-Strand at first base. Such an arrangement would prioritize defense while utilizing the team’s top talent effectively.
Although the Reds’ leadership remains optimistic about De La Cruz’s potential to excel at shortstop, moving him to third base should remain a consideration if it solidifies the overall infield defense. Balancing versatility and stability will be key to the Reds’ success in 2025.
Leave a Reply