Latest on Mets target Jung Hoo Lee: With Juan Soto traded, Padres have outfielder 'high' on wish list
Here's the latest buzz on star free agent outfielder Jung Hoo Lee...
Dec. 6, 11:50 p.m.
With the trade of Juan Soto official, the Padres are looking to fill their outfield ranks, and Jung Hoo Lee may be in their plans.
According to MLB.com's Mark Feinsand, Lee is reportedly "high" on the Padres' wish list this offseason. With the $30-plus million off the books, a deal for Lee could come quickly, per Feinsand.
With Soto and Trent Grisham dealt to the Yankees, San Diego has just Fernando Tatis Jr. as a starting outfielder on the roster.
Earlier in the day, Jon Heyman of The New York Post also reported that the Padres are in the market for Lee.
The Mets and Giants have also been linked to the outfielder.
Dec. 6, 1:39 p.m.
Things are "already percolating" with Lee's market, reports Jon Heyman of The New York Post, who adds that the Padres are a possible fit.
The Padres are on the verge of trading Juan Soto to the Yankees, which would clear roughly $30 million from their 2024 payroll and make it easier for them to add new players -- including Lee.
The Mets have also been linked to Lee, as have the Giants.
As far as the Yankees, they were also viewed as a contender for his services, but it's hard to see the fit there if they land Soto, which would give them a full outfield that includes Soto, Aaron Judge, and Alex Verdugo.
Dec. 4, 9:23 a.m.
Lee has been posted by the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO.
Along with the Mets and Yankees, Lee has been linked in reports to the Giants and Padres.
MLB Trade Rumors projected before the offseason that Lee would sign a five-year deal worth $50 million.
The 25-year-old has been a star over the past few seasons in the KBO. Lee's a former Rookie of the Year, MVP, and a five-time Gold Glove award winner.
The sweet-swinging lefty is a career .340 hitter and has been able to get on base at a stellar .407 clip. He also batted .429 with two doubles and five RBI across four games as part of Team Korea during the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Lee underwent season-ending ankle surgery in July, but MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported earlier this offseason that he is expected to be full-go for the beginning of the next season.
