The Texas Rangers have officially signed 18-year-old two-way international free agent Seong-Jun Kim from South Korea, as announced on May 17, 2025.

The signing deal is reportedly worth $1.2 million, reflecting the Rangers' confidence in Kim's potential as a two-way player.

Kim, who is set to graduate from Gwangju Jeil High School in January 2026, was named Korea's high school player of the year in 2024.

He becomes the fifth player from Gwangju Jeil High School to sign with a major league team, joining notable alumni like Byung-Hyun Kim and Jung Ho Kang.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 185 pounds, Kim excels as both a shortstop and a right-handed pitcher.

As a pitcher, he has recorded a fastball speed of 95 mph, complemented by a hard slider and splitter, showcasing his pitching talent.

While scouts believe Kim's most likely future is on the mound, his defensive skills at shortstop enhance his potential star status.

During the current season, Kim boasts a batting average of .333 and an impressive 1.015 OPS, highlighting his offensive capabilities.

The investment in Kim reflects the Rangers' belief in his ability to develop into a significant player, akin to the impact Shohei Ohtani has had on Japanese baseball.

If Kim reaches his full potential, he could emerge as a groundbreaking international superstar in Major League Baseball.