KIA Acquires Infielder Ha Ju-seok from Hanwha in One-for-One Trade

Professional baseball teams KIA and Hanwha have executed a one-for-one player trade, sending infielder Ha Ju-seok to KIA and right-handed pitcher Lee Hyung-beom to Hanwha. The deal was finalized on July 31st, just before the trade deadline.

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Ha Ju-seok can play various positions like second base and shortstop and has abundant experience in the first team, so he will be a help to the team's strength.

KIA expressed that Ha Ju-seok's versatility across multiple infield positions, including second base and shortstop, along with his extensive experience, will significantly benefit the team. Hanwha stated that Lee Hyung-beom, a veteran with closing experience, will strengthen their bullpen.

Ha Ju-seok, who spent 14 seasons with Hanwha, was a first-round draft pick in 2012 and grew into a key player, even serving as team captain in 2021. However, his career faced challenges due to incidents in 2022, including throwing a helmet in the dugout and a drunk driving offense. His position became less secure with the acquisition of Sim Woo-jun. Despite signing a one-year contract with Hanwha for the 2024 season, he had not played in the first team this year, though he performed well in the Futures League.

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Veteran Lee Hyung-beom, who has experience as a closer, will add strength to the bullpen.

This trade was initiated by KIA, who have been rotating players at shortstop this season. KIA plans to utilize Ha Ju-seok as a versatile infielder rather than a dedicated shortstop. The team also faces a potential gap at third base with Kim Do-young selected for the Asian Games. Meanwhile, Lee Hyung-beom, also 32, will join his fourth professional team. He has shown a 3.00 ERA in 24 innings this season and expressed gratitude to KIA fans for their support.

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I think I was too greedy because it's my hometown team. It was tough for two years, but I think I got good results this year because you cheered me on a lot.