By @VisualTejeda – FriarPulse

Published December 19, 2025 — 9:00 AM (PST) — Carlsbad, California

Hey, what’s up everyone — welcome to another episode of FriarPulse! Today we’re diving into a major international move that could quietly shape the Padres’ 2026 roster.

According to multiple reports out of South Korea, the San Diego Padres have agreed to terms with KBO standout Sung-Mun Song, a versatile infielder coming off back-to-back breakout seasons with the Kiwoom Heroes.

Who Is Sung-Mun Song?

Sung-Mun Song (송성문) is a 29-year-old infielder from Seoul, South Korea, and one of the most productive position players in the KBO over the last two seasons.

• Bats: Left
• Throws: Right
• Primary Position: Third Base
• Also Played: First Base, Second Base

Song debuted with the Kiwoom Heroes in 2015, missed time for mandatory military service, and returned as a complete, polished hitter — blending contact, power, and speed.

Why the Padres Were Interested

Song’s appeal is simple: production and versatility.

Over his last two KBO seasons, Song posted elite numbers, including high on-base percentages, double-digit home runs, and legitimate base-stealing ability. He doesn’t rely on just one tool — he impacts the game in multiple ways.

For a Padres team that values roster flexibility, Song fits the mold perfectly.

Projected Role in San Diego

Let’s be clear — this is not a Manny Machado replacement.

Instead, Song projects as a:

• Left-handed bat off the bench
• Spot starter against right-handed pitching
• Multi-position insurance across the infield

With Machado locked in at third base and the Padres constantly shuffling the infield to maximize matchups, Song gives manager Craig Stammen another chess piece to work with.

What the Contract Looks Like

While the deal has not yet been made official by the team, reports indicate the contract is expected to land in the $13–15 million range over three years.

This keeps the risk relatively low while giving the Padres upside if Song adjusts quickly to MLB pitching.

KBO-to-MLB Reality Check

Transitioning from the KBO to MLB is never instant.

Historically, hitters coming from Korea face an adjustment period — especially against elite velocity and advanced breaking balls. That said, Padres fans have already seen this path succeed with Ha-Seong Kim, who developed into a key contributor after an early learning curve.

The Padres are clearly betting that Song’s plate discipline, athleticism, and versatility will translate over time.

Final Take

This isn’t a splashy headline signing — and that’s exactly why it matters.

Sung-Mun Song represents smart roster construction: depth, flexibility, and upside at a reasonable cost. If he adapts, the Padres may have found another international gem.

And if not? The risk is minimal.

Either way, it’s a move worth watching closely as Spring Training approaches.

Thanks for watching, Padres fans. Stay sharp, stay faithful, and I’ll catch you right here next time on FriarPulse.