San Diego Padres Opt Out of Ha-Seong Kim’s Contract, Move Xander Bogaerts Back to Shortstop for 2025 Season
As the San Diego Padres prepare for the 2025 MLB season, the team has made a significant roster decision by opting not to renew Ha-Seong Kim’s contract, paving the way for Xander Bogaerts to return to the shortstop position.
Kim, who had the option to opt out of his deal and test free agency, was expected to seek a lucrative contract after his standout performance in recent seasons, which included stellar defense and contributions at the plate. However, the Padres chose to move in a different direction, allowing Kim to explore the market and making the decision to shift Bogaerts back to his natural position at shortstop.
Bogaerts, who played the bulk of his career at shortstop before transitioning to second base in 2024, had to return to shortstop late last season after Kim suffered a shoulder injury. While Bogaerts showed moments of brilliance, there were questions about his long-term fit at short due to inconsistency in his defensive performance. Nevertheless, the Padres appear confident that Bogaerts is the right solution for the position going forward.
“Xander is a proven leader and a key part of our team,” Padres General Manager A.J. Preller said in a statement.
“We believe moving him back to shortstop will help us build a strong foundation for the 2025 season and beyond.”
Kim, a fan favorite in San Diego, has been a valuable player since joining the Padres in 2021, known for his exceptional glove and steady contributions in the lineup. His decision to hire super-agent Scott Boras earlier this offseason hinted at his desire for a significant contract, one the Padres were unlikely to match given their payroll concerns and long-term plans.
With Bogaerts back at shortstop, the Padres are also looking to internal options such as Jackson Merrill or Fernando Tatis Jr. to fill the second base role or explore further adjustments within their infield. Merrill, who had a strong rookie season in 2024, and Tatis, who has proven his versatility, could both be key components in the new-look infield.
As the Padres navigate a pivotal offseason, the decision to move Bogaerts back to shortstop marks a major shift in their roster strategy, with the team looking to contend for a championship in 2025.
