Shortstop will undergo season-ending surgery on his right shoulder, sidelining him as the San Diego Padres head into the postseason without one of their top infielders.
He sustained the injury on August 18 during a game against the Colorado Rockies and hasn’t played since. The South Korean, known for his stellar defense and a Gold Glove winner last year while primarily playing second base, had hoped to return for the playoffs. However, doctors found a small tear in his labrum, necessitating the surgery.
“I really tried everything to come back and help the team,” He told MLB.com through an interpreter on Saturday. “But my body just wouldn’t listen to my mind. So I think, as of now, my season is over. It’s really frustrating and disappointing because we have a legitimate chance in the postseason, and I could have been part of it.”
Kim was hitting .233 with 11 home runs and 22 stolen bases in 121 games this season. His future with the Padres is uncertain, as he’s in the final year of a four-year contract. The deal includes a mutual option for 2025, but Kim could opt to decline it if he believes he can command a better offer in free agency.
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