Guardians named potential international free agent landing spot

On By Littum

Not many fans envisioned the Cleveland Guardians looking for another center this offseason.

However, the trade of Andres Gimenez and the overall youth in this position group may have the front office considering acquiring one before Opening Day.

Of course, the Guardians could consider signing one of the popular free agents or making a trade for a veteran player. However, there is another direction they could take.

Caleb Moody of Just Baseball Media believes The Guardians could be a possible landing spot for international free-agent infielder Hyeseong Kim.

Moody points out that “the trade (for Travis Bazzana) will likely happen this season, there will likely be a period of time when Cleveland will have to implement a stop-gap option,” Moody wrote.

There’s also a case that the Guardians could have Kim as a backup option in case Juan Brito doesn’t look ready for the big leagues or Brayan Rocchio’s offense returns to its former strength after a strong postseason performance.

Moody continued, “And even after Bazzana emerges, Kim will provide an insurance policy at second base for Bazzana as he grows into the major league game. His versatility to fill in briefly gives him a path to regular at-bats.”

“Kim would offer a solid upside option to compete with Rocchio for reps at short, ensuring the shortstop position isn’t quite the black hole offensively for the Guardians in 2025 like it was last year.”

Warden's hat and glove sit on the excavated railing

June 27, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Cleveland Guardians hat and glove on the dugout railing before a game against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Aiken-Imagn Images / Peter Aiken-Imagn Images

Moody’s entire argument for why Cleveland is an attractive destination for Kim is consistent. The Guardians need an offensive-minded infielder, and the international free agent hit .326/.383/.458 with an .841 OPS in the KBO last season.

If the Guardians can convince Kim to join the organization and that he can play a big role in their game plan going forward, then this could be a great partnership for both sides.