If Bregman departs from the organization he has been with since 2015, the Astros face the challenge of formulating a backup plan for the hot corner. Let's explore the possibilities and the role that Ha-Seong Kim could play.

Uncovering the Astros' Third Base Solution

Kim's Background and Trade

The Astros were rumored to be eyeing Willy Adames, but his seven-year deal with the Giants left free agent infielder Ha-Seong Kim as one of the few options available to fill the third base void in free agency. A shortstop by trade, Kim would need to make a conversion to third base for the majority of his playing time if he were to don an Astros uniform. However, his versatility makes him a valuable asset.Kim had a challenging 2024 due to a right shoulder issue that cost him some playing time, as he played only 121 games. This led to a down year offensively, with a.700 OPS and a 96 OPS+. But in 2023, he put up an impressive 5.8 bWAR season and won a Gold Glove for his work as a utility man. His performance demonstrated his value as a versatile weapon for the Padres.

Kim's Fit with the Astros

The Astros have the flexibility to mix and match Kim's playing time across the infield. While it's not confirmed that they are interested in him, he does have other confirmed suitors in the Tigers and Blue Jays. The Braves also seem like a great fit, although their interest is not yet confirmed.Despite the uncertainty surrounding his contract due to his down year and the fact that he could miss the start of 2025 after shoulder surgery, if the Astros can extract value from a two- or three-year deal, they are likely to at least explore the possibility of signing Kim. His skills and potential make him a worthy candidate to consider as a backup at third base.

Evaluating Kim's Impact

Kim's ability to adapt to different positions and contribute in various ways makes him an intriguing option for the Astros. His defensive skills, as evidenced by his Gold Glove, could be a valuable asset in shoring up the team's defense at third base. Offensively, he has shown the potential to be a productive hitter when healthy.If the Astros can manage his shoulder issues and integrate him effectively into the team, Kim could provide a significant boost to the lineup. His experience as a utility man also gives him the flexibility to fill in at other positions when needed, adding depth to the team.In conclusion, while the Astros' backup plan at third base remains uncertain, Ha-Seong Kim presents an interesting possibility. His skills and track record make him a player worth considering as they look to fill the void left by Bregman's potential departure.