SEOUL - The Samsung Lions have bolstered their bullpen by signing All-Star closer Kim Jae-yoon in free agency, a move aimed at strengthening their pitching lineup for the next season. This acquisition represents a significant addition to the team's roster.
According to Yonhap News Agency, 33-year-old Kim has agreed to a four-year deal worth up to 5.8 billion won (US$4.5 million), including 2.8 billion won in total salary and a 2 billion won signing bonus. He also has the potential to earn an additional 1 billion won in incentives. Kim, a right-handed pitcher, has been a key player for the KT Wiz since their inaugural season in 2015, amassing 169 saves over 481 appearances with a 3.58 ERA over 504 2/3 innings.
Kim is coming off his third consecutive 30-save season, achieving 32 saves in 2023 and ranking second in the KBO for most saves since 2020 with 118, just five behind Oh Seung-hwan, the incumbent Lions closer. While it is not immediately clear how the Lions will utilize Kim in their bullpen, especially with Oh currently negotiating a new deal as a free agent, the two are expected to form a potent combination at the back end of the bullpen.
The signing comes at a crucial time for the Lions, who had the worst bullpen ERA this year at 5.16 and suffered the most losses in the league with 31. Kim expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Lions, referencing the team's past success and his desire to contribute to its return to glory.