Korean big leaguer Kim Ha-seong (28)’s team, the San Diego Padres, recruited veteran giant player Nelson Cruz (43).

On the 12th (Korean time), ‘Major League Trade Rumors (MLBTR)’, which delivers news of major league transfers, announced Cruise’s trip to San Diego. MLBTR wrote, “San Diego and Cruz have agreed to a contract for one year and $1 million (about 1.2 billion won).”

Cruz is one of the giants representing the major leagues. After debuting in the big leagues in 2005, he has a career batting average of 0.274 (2018 hits in 7358 at-bats), 459 homers, 1302 RBIs, and an OPS of 0.859 in 2006 games.

MLBTR said, “Cruz is one of the most consistent hitters. After leaving the Minnesota Twins in the middle of the 2021 season, his offensive production has declined, and given his age, his performance may decline. It was very inflamed,’ he explained. If the eye surgery is successful, it may go back to normal.” 메이저놀이터

Cruz, who moved to San Diego, seems to seize the opportunity. This is because there is a relationship with San Diego general manager AJ Preller at the Texas Rangers from 2006 to 2013.

MLBTR explained, “General manager Preller tends to give chances to players he played with in Texas. Cruz had a prime time. If San Diego’s gamble works, it will form a fairly strong lineup.”

San Diego succeeded in reinforcing right-handed hitters by recruiting Cruz. The team lacked right-handed hitters as offseason switch hitter Josh Bell (31, Cleveland Guardians) and right-handed hitters Will Myers (33, Cincinnati Reds) and Brandon Drury (31, LA Angels) transferred. Cruise is expected to fill their positions and fill the gaps in the lineup.

In addition, it is evaluated that it will be a number of positive factors, such as the power of hitting double-digit home runs for 14 years from 2009 to last year and the positive impact on the team with excellent clubhouse leadership.