Padres' Ha-Seong Kim has to undergo an MRI after leaving the game early

Today, the San Diego Padres' game against the Colorado Rockies was a disaster. Not only did San Diego lose 3-2, but an important part of the squad also left the game early.

According to Jeff Sanders of the San Diego Union-Tribune, shortstop Ha-Seong Kim injured his shoulder while diving for first base in the third inning. He immediately got up and went straight to the Padres dugout, holding his shoulder.

“It doesn't feel so good right now,” Kim said after the game through his interpreter David Lee. “But it all happened so quickly. At the moment I'm not really sure. Not so good.”

“I definitely never had a feeling like that before and when the injury happened, I knew I couldn't play in today's game.”

Afterward, the Padres said the injury was a shoulder contusion and that Kim would need to get an MRI to determine what happened. Despite the sudden pain, Kim remains optimistic.

“We have to look at the MRI images tomorrow and try to determine the extent of the damage,” Kim said. “But I'm just trying to stay optimistic and get back as soon as possible.”

Padres manager Mike Shildt did not comment on a plan to replace Kim if he is unable to return.

“I think it's too early to talk about that after we've just had a game, without the information I have from Kimmy,” Shildt said. “…Wadey did a good job today. We'll take stock and figure it out.”

Fortunately, the Padres have several options when it comes to shortstop. Kim was replaced by Tyler Wade after his injury and has started six times at the position this season. In addition, Xander Bogaerts and Jake Cronenworth also have experience there. Both players were named All-Stars at the position.

Still, the Padres will miss Kim if he doesn't return. Last year, he won the Gold Glove Award for all-around player and has played well this season as well. In 2024, Kim has maintained a batting average of .231 with 11 home runs, 47 RBI and 22 stolen bases.

Sitting just three games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Padres need all the help they can get if they want to clinch the National League West title and secure their spot in the postseason.

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