Sung-mun Song’s signing could squeeze a key Padres veteran’s role

The Padres had a busy week as they managed to bring back right-hander Michael King on a multi-year deal, but also added some depth in the infield with Sung-mun Song on Friday.

Song, 29, has played the past nine seasons of his pro career in South Korea with the Kiwoom Heroes. In that time frame, he slashed .283/.347/.431 with a .779 OPS. The truth is, he is a more well-rounded version of Luis Arráez, as his defense and baserunning made him intriguing to MLB teams when he was first posted.

While it may seem like a small move, this could impact how ambitious the Padres are for the rest of the offseason, specifically when looking at the infield. San Diego is still in search of a first baseman with both Arráez and Ryan O’Hearn set to depart.

What does Jake Cronenworth’s future look like in San Diego?

Bringing in Song could determine the future of one player who has been rumored to be involved in trade rumors.

There is one word associated with Cronenworth’s future…money. The 31-year-old infielder is due to make $60 million over the next five years, and due to payroll constraints, it would not be a surprise for Preller to move him in order to free up some money.

The team already has Fernando Tatis Jr., Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, and Jackson Merrill on the books through 2033. Cronenworth is on the books through 2031, but the team would like more financial relief by trading him.

Trading Cronenworth could free up money to spend on Luis Arráez, Ryan O’Hearn, or both, keeping the group together long-term. By following this approach, you will have your replacements at both first and second base.

It will be interesting to see how Preller addresses Cronenworth’s future following the signing of Sung-mun Song.