MLB Rumors: Chapman Would Make Temporary Change If Giants Sign Kim originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Matt Chapman did not play shortstop in an MLB game since 2021, but he is willing to fill the position temporarily to help the Giants.
Chapman, an elite defensive third baseman, told the Giants he is ready to play shortstop for a brief period if San Francisco signs Ha-Seong Kim, injured free agentKen Rosenthal of The Athletic reported Thursday, citing sources briefed on the discussions.
Kim underwent shoulder surgery in October, and according to Rosenthal, the 29-year-old South Korean is expected to miss the start of the 2025 MLB season, perhaps even the entire first half.
The Giants are prioritizing shortstop as a position of need this offseason, and once healthy, Kim would provide a dynamic left side of the infield with Chapman.
Kim played the last four seasons with the San Diego Padres, but declined an $8 million player option for the 2025 season, taking a $2 million buyout to test free agency. He won $28 million from 2021 to 2024.
In four MLB seasons, Kim hit .242/.326/.380 with 80 doubles, 47 home runs and 200 RBIs. He has a bWAR of 15.3 over his career.
Kim’s best season came in 2023 when he had a 5.8 bWAR, won the NL Gold Glove at shortstop and received NL MVP votes.
Chapman, who signed a six-year, $151 million contract extension with the Giants, appeared in four career MLB games at shortstop. He also has experience at the position from his college days at Cal State Fullerton.
The Giants could also keep Chapman at third base and play Tyler Fitzgerald at shortstop until Kim is healthy.
But it’s a bridge the Giants can cross if they sign Kim.
