LET'S KEEP TALKING ABOUT HA-SEONG KIM

Why? Because it makes sense, that's why.

Kim is a name that’s been bouncing around in conversations about how to elevate the Yankees' roster. Bleeding Yankee Blue, Empire Sports Media, and CBS Sports all seem to agree: Kim in pinstripes makes a lot of sense.

Kim is a dream scenario for any team looking to shore up their infield and add speed to their game. Over his four seasons with the Padres, he’s played shortstop, second base, and third base, delivering elite defense at every position. Add in his aggressive approach on the basepaths and you’ve got a player who could completely transform the Yankees’ lineup. In my opinion, if the Yankees aren't gonna keep Gleyber, this may be the move.

Offensively, Kim brings more than just speed. His 12% walk rate over the past two seasons puts him among the league’s most patient hitters, making him an ideal leadoff candidate. Imagine him getting on base and setting the table for Juan Soto and Aaron Judge—his approach would force pitchers to throw strikes, making life easier for the Yankees' heavy hitters.

On the bases, Kim is no slouch. If he joins the Yankees, the team’s projected stolen base totals skyrocket. With Jazz Chisholm (33 steals), Anthony Volpe (28), Ha-Seong Kim (24), and Jasson Dominguez (20) in the mix, the Yankees could combine for 105 steals next season. That’s a level of speed this team hasn’t seen in over a decade, dating back to their 112 stolen bases in 2014. Adding Kim could make the Yankees one of the most dynamic baserunning teams in the league.

Then there’s his impact on defense. The Yankees need stability in the infield, and Kim could provide that. Replacing Gleyber Torres with Kim would improve the team's defensive significantly while adding a bat capable of contributing both consistency and versatility. This isn’t just a swap; it’s an upgrade on both sides of the ball.

There’s also a strategic angle here. Hal Steinbrenner reportedly assured Juan Soto that the Yankees would bolster the roster. Adding Kim, Soto’s teammate for the past two seasons, would be a smart way to back up that promise. It’s not just about the talent Kim brings; it’s about team chemistry and making Soto feel at home. I mean, this will play a small part of it, but it's a part I'll throw in the mix!

Of course, the Yankees will have competition for Kim. The Giants are rumored to be one of his most aggressive suitors. His ability to play multiple positions, combined with his base-stealing skills, makes him appealing to any contender looking for a versatile infielder.

But honestly, for me Kim offers everything the Yankees need right now: defense, patience, speed, and versatility. Bleeding Yankee Blue, Empire Sports Media, and CBS Sports all recognize how impactful he could be in pinstripes. If the Yankees want to reshape their roster and live up to Hal’s "promise", Ha-Seong Kim is the move to make.

Stay tuned.