The San Diego Padres have reportedly agreed to a contract with South Korean infielder Sung-Mun Song, adding one of the top international position players on the market to their roster this offseason. The news comes shortly after the club re-signed pitcher Michael King, underscoring the Padres’ busy winter and clear intent to build a competitive squad for the 2026 season. mlb.com+1
Who Is Sung-Mun Song?
Sung-Mun Song is a 29-year-old infielder from South Korea who has spent his entire professional career with the Kiwoom Heroes in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO). Known for his left-handed bat, Song broke out as one of the KBO’s most productive hitters over the past two seasons, posting elite offensive numbers and earning recognition as one of the league’s best players. Yahoo Sports+1
Song was a stalwart in the KBO for nearly a decade before being posted for Major League Baseball teams during a 30-day negotiation window that began in late November. This posting process allowed MLB clubs to bid for exclusive rights to sign him, and San Diego reportedly won the sweepstakes. mlb.com
Contract Details
According to reports from MLB insiders and multiple sources, Song agreed to a three-year contract worth roughly $13 million with the Padres, pending a successful physical. Yahoo Sports
The deal represents an investment in a player who has yet to play in MLB but arrives with strong credentials and intriguing upside. While official confirmation and full terms from the Padres have not been released, the reported contract positions Song as a cost-controlled bat with the potential to contribute immediately. mlb.com+1
Song’s KBO Performance
Song’s recent production in Korea is what drew interest from major league teams. In 2024, he hit .340 with a .927 OPS and showcased a complete offensive profile. He followed that up in 2025 with a .315 batting average, .917 OPS, 26 home runs and 25 stolen bases in 144 games. Yahoo Sports
Over his nine seasons in the KBO, Song developed into a dynamic hitter with a combination of power, on-base skills and speed. Across his career with the Kiwoom Heroes, he accumulated 80 home runs, 454 runs batted in and a .283 batting average. Yahoo News Malaysia
Where He Fits in San Diego
Song’s primary position in Korea was third base, but he also has experience at second base and first base, giving the Padres flexibility as they integrate him into the lineup. With established stars like Manny Machado already at third base, Song’s early role could include time at multiple spots or serve as valuable depth behind the everyday infield. mlb.com
This signing adds to a growing trend of Major League clubs investing in top talent from international leagues like the KBO, and Song’s transition to MLB will be one of the storylines to watch heading into spring training. Gaslamp Ball
What This Means for the Padres
The Padres’ reported agreement with Song follows their earlier re-signing of Michael King and demonstrates the club’s commitment to reshaping its roster for sustained success. Song’s addition brings a high-upside bat with experience and versatility, complementing San Diego’s existing core while providing depth and offensive potential. mlb.com
As the 2026 season approaches, Song will be one of the international newcomers Padres fans will be excited to follow, with expectations high after his standout KBO career.
