Ha-Seong Kim makes feelings known about San Diego Padres after $29,000,000 Tampa Bay Rays move

After spending his first four years in the majors with the San Diego Padres, infielder Ha-Seong Kim has agreed to a two-year, $29 million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays. Kim's contract has a player option for the 2026 season.

Kim played 121 games in 2024, batting .233/.330/.370 with 11 home runs, 47 RBIs and 22 stolen bases. Due to a shoulder injury, he wasn't part of the postseason, where the Padres were taken down by the eventual World Series winner, the LA Dodgers, in five games in the NLDS.

On Monday, as his deal with the Rays was finalized, Ha-Seong Kim took to social media to share his feelings for the Padres. He expressed his thanks to the players and the coaching staff with whom he created lots of memories.

"During the four years I spent in San Diego, I made unforgettable and precious memories that will last with me forever," Kim wrote. "Ever since I first came over to the big leagues, it was truly an honor for me to play every game in front of the passionate fans of San Diego.

"All my fellow players, coaching staff, support staff, front office, and the #padresnation were like family to me. I will cherish the time and memories I had in San Diego in my heart. Thank you sincerely."

Ha-Seong Kim joins Jurickson Profar in leaving Padres in free agency

The San Diego Padres were expected to be active this offseason to bridge the gap with the LA Dodgers, who have dominated the NL West. However, the ownership struggles at the top of the chain haven't helped, with the team barely showing any signs of activity this offseason.

This has resulted in the team parting with their stars from last season, including Jurickson Profar and Ha-Seong Kim.

Before Kim signed with the Rays, Profar signed with the Atlanta Braves on a three-year, $42 million deal.