SEOUL — San Diego Padres general manager A.J. Preller confessed that the organization had initially underestimated the defensive abilities of South Korean shortstop Kim Ha-seong, who has since emerged as a Gold Glove winner.
According to Yonhap News Agency, while the Padres recognized Kim's offensive prowess when they signed him from the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) prior to the 2021 season, they did not fully anticipate the level of impact he would have defensively. Speaking at a media event at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul ahead of the Padres' exhibition game against the South Korean national team, Preller reflected on Kim's evolution as a defender, stating that his winning of the Gold Glove last year was indicative of his exceeded expectations.
Before joining the MLB, Kim was known in the KBO as a powerful hitter, leading all shortstops in home runs during his final season with the Kiwoom Heroes. While he was considered athletic in the field, his defensive capabilities were not viewed as elite. However, Preller noted that Kim's defensive talents became apparent early on, particularly during his first spring training with the Padres, suggesting that he could be among the best defenders in the league.
The Padres are currently in South Korea to play the first MLB regular season games in the country against the Los Angeles Dodgers, following exhibition matches against the South Korean national team and the KBO's LG Twins. Preller expressed pride in representing MLB and showing support for Korean baseball during this historic visit.
Additionally, Preller discussed the recent signing of former KBO star and Twins closer Go Woo-suk, who is trying to secure a spot on the Padres' Opening Day roster. While Go has faced challenges adapting to MLB during spring training, Preller remains committed to his long-term development, drawing parallels to Kim's initial adjustment period.
Kim's popularity among Padres fans, as highlighted by Preller, is attributed to his hard work, passion, and consistent performance, which have made him one of the most beloved players on the team.
SEOUL — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has arrived in South Korea to participate in a session of the Summit for Democracy and to conduct a series of diplomatic engagements, highlighting the ongoing collaboration and shared democratic values between the United States and South Korea.According to Yonhap News Agency, Blinken landed at Osan Air Base in Pyeongtaek, located 60 kilometers south of Seoul, for a two-day visit. His agenda includes discussions with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, marking their second engagement in less than a month, following their recent meeting in Washington. These talks, scheduled for Monday, aim to address democratic cooperation, strengthen bilateral alliances, and tackle regional issues, particularly the situation on the Korean Peninsula.
The Summit for Democracy, spearheaded by the U.S., seeks to bolster solidarity among democracies facing challenges from rising authoritarianism worldwide. This year's event, hosted by South Korea, will feature ministerial sessions, panel discussions with civic groups, and a virtual leaders' session, spanning from March 18 to 20. U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to participate in the summit virtually.
The repeated engagements between Cho and Blinken, especially after their initial in-person talks since Cho's appointment in January, underscore the significance of U.S.-South Korea relations. Additionally, Blinken is slated to meet with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, further emphasizing the strategic partnership and shared interests between the two nations.