In a landmark move, the San Francisco Giants have clinched a game-changing agreement with South Korean outfielder Jung Hoo Lee, sealing a staggering $113 million, six-year contract, reports confirm. While the Giants are yet to officially announce the deal, an inside source shared the news with The Associated Press on Tuesday, choosing to remain anonymous.
Lee, a standout MVP figure from South Korea, emerges from a baseball legacy as the son of a former MVP. This colossal deal includes a clause enabling Lee to opt out after four years and $72 million, granting him the opportunity to explore free agency again.
The versatile Lee, renowned for his adaptability, is expected to immediately address the Giants’ pressing need, likely filling the center field position. After a two-season playoff drought following their record-breaking 107-win streak and NL West victory in 2021, the team sees Lee’s arrival as a pivotal enhancement.
San Francisco’s move to secure Lee follows their unsuccessful attempts to sign two-way star Shohei Ohtani, who landed a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Giants’ president of baseball operations, Farhan Zaidi, refrained from commenting directly on the Lee agreement but discussed the team’s negotiations with Ohtani. Zaidi highlighted the competitiveness of their offers, including a final bid closely resembling the Dodgers’ deal.
Lee’s posting by South Korea’s Kiwoom Heroes on December 4 initiated the current negotiations. Should Lee see through the entirety of the contract, the Giants will owe an $18,825,000 posting fee to the Heroes, reduced to $12,675,000 if he opts out.
The 25-year-old Lee, despite an ankle injury that prematurely ended his recent season, has showcased exceptional talent. His 2022 performance featured a .349 average, 23 home runs, and 113 RBIs, earning him the MVP following his 2017 Rookie of the Year honor.
Lee’s prowess extends beyond domestic leagues, contributing significantly to South Korea’s international baseball campaigns, including a standout display in this year’s World Baseball Classic.
This significant move by the Giants signals a major stride in their pursuit of talent and rejuvenation, aligning them strategically for a robust comeback in the upcoming seasons. Lee’s proven track record and potential will be pivotal in reshaping the team’s trajectory and aspirations.
