Padres are eager to test Sung-Mun Song in a new role as camp suddenly thins

Infield depth was one of the biggest priorities for A.J. Preller and the front office in free agency, and while they didn’t quite have the money to go big, they were able to come through for their fans by getting someone who would give them something to be excited about.

Padres fans were devastated when Ha-seong Kim departed in free agency for the Tampa Bay Rays, as he was a fan favorite. It was the right move, but one that hurt to say the least.

However, San Diego may have found its next Ha-seong Kim, as they signed another KBO legend back in December.

The Padres signed Sung-mun Song to a four-year, $15 million contract, and the team hopes to see what they have in the 29-year-old during the 2026 World Baseball Classic, where plenty of Padres stars will be representing their roots.

Padres could experiment with Song at shortstop as camp reveals a new wrinkle

With Xander Bogaerts representing the Netherlands in the WBC, the Padres are optimistic about getting Sung-mun Song reps at shortstop. Afterall, one of the key reasons for bringing him in was because of his versatility.

Song will not be participating, and the Padres hope to see him test out a new role in spring training with others out.

Fernando Tatis Jr. will also be out of camp, representing the Dominican Republic. The Padres will also plug Song in the corner outfield to see what he has out there.

What started as a big hit or miss signing could be turning the corner, and Song could be one of the best depth pieces that the Padres have seen in quite some time.

Already able to play first, second, and third, adding two more positions to the résumé will only make him more loved in his new home.

It will be exciting to see how his transition goes.