With the Juan Soto official change, the Padres are looking to fill out their outfield, and Jung Hoo Lee could be a part of that.According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, Lee is said to be “at the top” of the Padres’ wish list this offseason. With more than $30 million off the book, Feinsand says a deal for Lee could be done quickly.
With Soto and Trent Grisham dealt to the Yankees, San Diego only has Fernando Tatis Jr. on the roster as a starting outfielder.Earlier today, Jon Heyman of the New York Post also reported that the Padres were in the market for Lee. The Mets and Giants have also been linked to the outfielder.
December 6, 1:39 p.m.The market for Lee is “already percolating,” reports Jon Heyman of the New York Post, who adds that the Padres could fit the bill.The Padres are close to trading Juan Soto to the Yankees, which would save them about $30 million on their payroll in 2024 and make it easier for them to add new players, including Lee.
The Mets and Giants have also been linked to Lee. As for the Yankees, they too were seen as a contender for his services, but it’s hard to see the fit there if they landed Soto, which would give them a full outfield with Soto, Aaron Judge and Alex Verdugo.December 4, 9.23amLee was released by KBO’s Kiwoom Heroes.Along with the Mets and Yankees, Lee has been linked to the Giants and Padres in reports.
MLB Trade Rumors predicted before the offseason that Lee would sign a five-year contract worth $50 million. The 25-year-old has been a star in the KBO in recent seasons. Lee is a former Rookie of the Year, MVP and five-time Gold Glove winner.The high-swinging southpaw is a professional .340 hitter and could reach base at an excellent .407 clip. He also hit .429 with two doubles and five RBIs in four games for Team Korea in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Lee underwent season-ending ankle surgery in July, but Jon Morosi of MLB Network reported earlier this offseason that he is expected to return to action by the start of next season.
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